Former Detroit Red Wings player Martin Frk is facing criticism for a dangerous incident in a Swiss National League game. Frk engaged in a puck battle physically with opposing player Lawrence Pilut and was caught in a position near the bench where he raised his skate to Lawrence's neck area with an intent to injure.
Here's how the play happened, courtesy of TSN:
Fortunately, Pilut escaped a serious injury. Frk initially received a one game suspension pending an investigation. However, the Swiss National League's disciplinary committee later handed down a five-game suspension and a fine of 7,600 Swiss francs ($8,744). Reports suggest that this decision was based on the belief that Frk deliberately kicked Pilut.
This has sparked discussions within the hockey community, with some calling for more severe consequences, including a lifetime ban for Frk.
The incident occurred just less than six weeks after former Pittsburgh Penguins player Adam Johnson tragically died after taking a skate to the neck during a game between the Nottingham Panthers and Sheffield Steelers in the EIHL.
POLL | ||
19 DECEMBRE | 113 ANSWERS BREAKING: Martin Frk Suspended For Intentionally Kicking Opponent In The Throat Do you think the suspension was fair? | ||
Yes | 29 | 25.7 % |
Not worth a suspension | 19 | 16.8 % |
Should've gotten more games | 30 | 26.5 % |
Should have lifetime ban | 35 | 31 % |
List of polls |