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Mlive reported that Patrick Kane was back on the ice today in a limited role. The discussion continues to circulate as to whether a push should be made for the 3 time cup winner to dress for a game or two before the all star break or to allow for extended time to heal. This is one of those “no win… situations. If Kane dresses and gets hurt “the team should have waited…. If the team comes up short in those games, “Kane should have been played…. At this point, I’d play it safe and rest the winger unless he absolutely insists that he’s good to go and even then limit minutes. Kane has nothing to prove at this point and if the team is in the hunt they can keep him past the trade deadline or discuss a list of suitors. There will likely be a few. Let me know your thoughts in the comments.
Each summer, I briefly mention some of the workshops and classes Detroit has for prospects. Cooking classes along with nutritional guidelines, individual workout programs, and a newer addition is a social media session. It’s a closed door session, so any information about the class is what the GM or coach discloses. Essentially, the spotlight is always on for pro athletes and celebrities. A social media post can go viral and whether or not it would be considered damaging, the public reaction is heard by the team and their sponsors.
Another tough lesson was learned by players from Ottawa several years ago. Players were talking about a staff member in less than glowing terms in an Uber. The footage was leaked and feelings were hurt. It was embarrassing for everyone and a reminder that the cameras are “always on…. This is a case of everyday behavior being broadcast to a point where it had to be addressed.
Unfortunately, there are disturbing allegations that are being addressed. I won’t link to them, most of you have already seen article. I pondered for most of the day regarding thoughts on what is happening and how to address the news cycle. The conversations being had stem from legal statements and even official testimony from Parliament Hill. The situation is almost unavoidable for those who follow the sport.
There is no escaping statements that will be made by the league and those surrounding it. Once all the dust settles, the discussion about representing a team or a country and expectations will be brought back to the forefront. Ultimately, good can come from situations with clarity and responsibility as the guiding force. The very best we can hope for is a clear and complete picture where the truth prevails and subsequent actions are based in that alone.
The rate at which information spreads means that many lives are going to be forever changed. Let us all hope that anyone hurt in this situation and the subsequent fallout finds solace that in the end, the actions taken moving forward are the right and just actions. Let us all hope that no further harm come to anyone already hurting.