Player suspended for purposely kicking player in the throat in disturbing manner
Former Detroit Red Wings player Martin Frk is facing a suspension after a troubling incident during a Swiss National League game that has led to calls for serious consequences. The incident involved a high skate to the neck area of Lawrence Pilut, prompting some to advocate for a lifetime ban for Frk.
The unsettling scene unfolded during a matchup between Lausanne and Rapperswil-Jona last week. In the midst of a play for possession, Frk and Pilut engaged in a tussle near the Rapperswil-Jona bench. In the process, Frk's skate made contact with Pilut's face, just above his chin.
Despite the alarming nature of the incident, Pilut fortunately escaped without serious injury. Initially handed a one-game suspension pending an investigation, Frk now faces a more severe penalty.
The disciplinary committee in Switzerland has handed down a five-game suspension to the former Red Wings player, coupled with a fine of 7,600 Swiss francs ($8,744).
Many are even stating this was Attempted murder
The decision to escalate the punishment was based on the determination that Frk intentionally kicked Pilut during the altercation. Frk, aged 30, has been playing in the Swiss National League this season, contributing four goals and eight points across 18 games split between two teams.
His NHL career includes stints with the Los Angeles Kings, Detroit Red Wings, and Carolina Hurricanes, where he amassed 20 goals and 41 points in 124 games.
In the aftermath of the incident, some voices in the hockey community are suggesting that law enforcement should be involved in cases where the intent to cause catastrophic injury is apparent. The incident raises questions about player safety and the appropriate measures to address dangerous on-ice behavior.
| POLL | ||
Do you think this player should be suspended forever from hockey? | ||
| YES! | 37 | 59.7 % |
| No, it was accidental | 25 | 40.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
