In the NHL’s and Gary Bettman’s infinite wisdom, they have decided to suspend Detroit’s Nicklas Lidstrom and Pavel Datsyuk, who will miss the All-Star Game because of injury, for the first game back after the break. This mean’s they’ll be out for Tuesday’s game versus the Columbus Blue Jackets. Lidstrom is bothered by an ankle injury that won’t heal completely and Datsyuk has an issue with his hip. Lidstrom has appeared in 10 straight All-Star games as the game’s premier defensive player for over a decade. This was the Datsyuk’s third All-Star selection, for the game’s best defensive forward.
Nick Lidstrom will miss the 2009 All-Star game and the first game back from the break.
Does Bettman think that anyone even watches the NHL All-Star Game? Is it THAT important? I could see if the player just did not want to show up, or needed to go to Cabo instead; but, both Red Wings players have legitimate injuries and I can understand their not wanting to go. Even more so than that, I think this should come down to a fine. If the Red Wings come down to a race to get to the playoffs and finished a couple of points out – this would be an absolutely ridiculous reason. They should fine the players who miss the game if its something that they have to go to.
The bottom line is that the NHL All-Star game is awful. There’s nothing good about it: no fights, no goaltending, no defense.
Tags: All-Star Game, Detroit Red Wings Hockey, Gary Bettman, NHL, Nicklas Lidstrom, Pavel Datsyuk
#1 by Jeff Cole on January 27th, 2009 - 12:20 am
I would agree. Personally I don’t think the players should even be fined. Ken Holland did not want these 2 key Wing players sustaining further injury and risking another cup. If anyone should be fined or suspended it should be Bettman for continuing to put a bad product like the All Star game on the ice.
#2 by Joe on January 27th, 2009 - 12:32 am
Well, if they’re hurt and need to rest – is the season not all ABOUT the regular season schedule and placing first in your division? That division is tight this year, this better not mess with home ice.
It was kind of surprising to have of an All Star game (I did not even watch it) with no Red Wings. I mean, it’s the most popular franchise.
I heard that Bettman then invited Rafalski and someone else – both already had plans to rest on the break and spend time with their families. Seems logical? On a side note: the fans did not even vote ANY Wings in. Lidstrom and Datsyuk were voted in by the GM’s and Coaches.
I guess Golden Boy Sydney Crosby could not play either. However, he showed up and will not be penalized any ice time when the second half resumes. I just don’t see the point in doing that if the fans did not even vote you in??