The Outburst: Bieksa Takes Aim at Cousins’ On-Ice Conduct
Former NHL player Kevin Bieksa voices his strong criticism of Florida Panthers forward Nick Cousins, dubbing him a “rat” and demanding action from the Panthers organization or the NHL department of player safety.
Amidst the passion and excitement that hockey brings, fans crave thrilling moments like spectacular goals and intense fights. However, former NHL player Kevin Bieksa argues that dangerous plays, such as kneeing, head hits, and checks from behind, should not be part of the equation. Bieksa’s recent outburst on a Hockey Night in Canada segment had a singular focus: Florida Panthers forward Nick Cousins.
Dangerous Hits: A Disturbing Trend in Cousins’ Style of Play
Bieksa did not mince his words as he labeled Cousins a “rat” and demanded action from either the Panthers organization or the NHL department of player safety. The catalyst for this outburst was a dangerous kneeing hit Cousins delivered during a game against the Arizona Coyotes. Bieksa emphasized that this incident was not an isolated event but rather part of a disturbing trend that has become synonymous with Cousins’ style of play.
Comparisons and Consequences: Cousins’ Controversial Legacy
Drawing parallels, Bieksa compares Cousins to Mark Scheifele, who faced similar criticism for physical play during his time with the Winnipeg Jets last season. The consequences of Cousins’ actions are examined, with specific incidents and their aftermath discussed.
Having played in the NHL himself, Bieksa understands the physicality and intensity of the game. However, he expressed his disappointment that Cousins repeatedly finds himself at the center of controversy due to his on-ice conduct. Bieksa cited previous incidents involving Cousins, including hits on Erik Gudbranson earlier in the year. In these situations, Cousins often ends up in a defensive “turtle position,” provoking a melee of retaliation from opponents.
The Urgent Call for Change: A Rat in the Ranks
Acknowledging that Cousins is considered a good player and well-liked by his teammates, Bieksa emphasizes the need for someone within the Panthers organization or someone Cousins respects to step in and address the issue. Bieksa’s intention is not to vilify Cousins but rather to highlight the need for change in order to protect players’ safety and maintain the integrity of the game.
Zucker’s Suspension: Fallout from the Boarding Incident
In a related development, Arizona Coyotes forward Jason Zucker has been suspended for three games following a controversial boarding incident involving Cousins. The incident occurred during Tuesday night’s game when Zucker checked Cousins from behind, resulting in a dangerous collision with the boards. The altercation stemmed from an earlier play in which Cousins had elbowed Coyotes defenseman Juuso Valimaki in the head while he was on his knees. Zucker’s forceful hit on Cousins led to a fight with Panthers defenseman Gustav Forsling, resulting in penalties for both players.
Editors Insights
The Incident involving Zucker further underscores the gravity of the situation and the potential consequences of dangerous plays on the ice. As the debate surrounding Cousins’ conduct continues, it remains to be seen how the Panthers organization and the NHL department of player safety will respond to Bieksa’s call for action. The safety and well-being of players should always be a top priority, and addressing controversial hits is an essential step towards ensuring a safer and fairer game for everyone involved.
