NHL Enforcers Not Happy with New Reebok Jerseys

James Mirtle has the story over at the Globe.

While the new garb was tested for water resistance, aerodynamics and, ahem, marketing potential, I'm guessing the pointy heads never thought to try it out in a scrap or two.

In all seriousness, I am glad to see James stating the obvious. Folks, these jerseys were made for one reason... to make money. What other pro sports league has overhauled every team's jerseys during the off-season? Better yet, do you buy the cokkadoodledoo (that's a first for me) being fed to you that these jerseys are really going to make the players 8% faster?

Enforcers possess very strong upper bodies as they need to lock out opposing fighters from coming inside and throwing punches. And when those cement grips get on each other jersey's and combatants start tugging and pulling, players expect resistance. And when it suddenly isn't there, there is a potential for injury.

Not only that, but when jerseys start tearing off, players will be free to throw without defense from their opponent. That, most certainly, is how injuries happen. And that is one reason the NHL invented fight straps... thank you Rob Ray (he used to conveniently find his way out of his jersey during fights) for that.

So don't be surprised if this isn't the last injury you see. As James said, the focus has been on the look of the jersey.

At the same time, don't forget about the cost ($100 for an REPLICA and oodles more for an authentic, because the NHL is fan friendly); don't forget that you are now supposedly watching 8% faster players (woohoo!); and don't forget that the NHL has soiled the linens of hockey tradition yet again.