What Bertuzzi did was wrong and yes he should pay, but he is still a great enforcer. I hate the guy, but I'd applaud if the Wings bought his contract. His big screw up was getting carried away. What I hope doesn't happen is that this might cause some teams to pull back on the reins of their enforcers too much. Intimidation is still a big part of the game (thank god) and I'd hate to see the game wussed down. Bertuzzi took a cheap shot and, unfortunately for him, it'll cost him some bucks (rightfully so) but hey, if there's no blood on the ice by the time the game is over then it's not hockey, it's curling.
Sorry to burst your bubble, commander, but Ken Holland has told the Detroit press in no uncertain terms that Bertuzzi is, was, and never will be on their prospectives list. Granted, in the day of Scotty Bowman as head coach, the RedWings may have had someone who could handle his arrogant attitude and actions, but not today. Mike Ilitch has not commented except to say 'We really are not interested in his type of player', and Coach Babcock has not said anything. A spot of blood on the ice is not foreign to me or my method of play, either, but Bertuzzi is allowed way too much room to coldcock those around him. He also would be roundly suspended for that type of activity now with the new rules.
wingnut4life, I'm not saying I don't see your point, and I'd feel the same way if it happened to one of my hometown players. I'm saying, I'd rather have a broken face than a broken neck. Having had my jaw dislocated and broken once apiece, and my nose broken several times, I could deal with that a lot easier than a broken neck. Seriously, can you say differently? Unless you're a whole lot prettier than me (which is certainly possible), or you think walking is overrated, probably not.
Granted, in the day of Scotty Bowman as head coach, the RedWings may have had someone who could handle his arrogant attitude and actions, but not today. Can't help missing him as coach! No one could ever get more out of his players them him. The Greatest. And yes I know some will say I'm off the thread again (I do wander)...but tough shit this time and no apologizes for taking the time to praise a legend.
Unless you're a whole lot prettier than me Don't hate me 'cause I'm beautiful... But seriously, maybe it is because I'm a Red Wing Homer. I see where you are coming from. And about the broken/and dislocated jaw and the numerous nose-breakings, what gives? I use to put my head through walls as a party favor, and I didn't get that much damage. What are you, a boxing glove quality checker?
But I am beautiful! well....my wife thinks I'm good looking....or nor too bad...or maybe just ok.... Screw it! My dogs love me!