Agent calls for additional security for Russian NHL players after threats begin to surface
The actions of Russian President Vladimir Putin and his decision to invade the Ukraine have been the dominant story since the moment Russian soldiers stepped foot on Ukrainian soil. The unrest that it has caused is not limited to just the bystanders. I also has an impact on Russian and Belarusian people who do not support the war.
Regardless of whether Russian and Belarusian athletes are in support of Putin's actions or oppose them, it doesn't seem to make a difference to some in North America. Some are painting all Russians and Belarusians with the same brush - and it's dangerous.
Per player agent Dan Milstein, via TSN Hockey Insider Darren Dreger, some Russian players in North America have been targeted with verbal attacks and threats both in person and on social media.
I just spoke with [agent Dan Milstein]. He has raised concerns of «real threats» to his Russian based clients both in-person and on Social media to the NHLPA and NHL clubs with Russian born players. Milstein is asking for additional security for his players in North America.
This is very alarming, and while many or all of the threats are idle, I don't believe the NHL or the NHLPA can afford to take any chances.
Could we see a scenario in which Russian players are held out of lineups or sent back to Russia entirely until things calm down? That remains to be seen.
We have heard some opinions recently that Russian athletes should be banned from playing in North American leagues. While that idea seemed extreme at first, perhaps its not so extreme now if it means protecting these players from potential acts of violence or worse.
Previously on MapleLeafsDaily
POLL |
FEVRIER 28 | 474 ANSWERS Agent calls for additional security for Russian NHL players after threats begin to surface Should Russian NHLers be held out of their respective lineups temporarily for safety reasons? |
Yes | 100 | 21.1 % |
No | 272 | 57.4 % |
Show me the results | 102 | 21.5 % |
List of polls |
|
42 minutes ago | By Nick Matthews Bruins Reportedly Refused to Trade Brad Marchand to the Toronto Maple Leafs |
|
2 hours ago | By Mike Armenti Brad Treliving Publicly Addresses Ryan Reaves' Future With the Maple Leafs |
|
4 hours ago | By Mike Armenti Leafs Unveil Jersey Numbers and New Linemates for Scott Laughton and Brandon Carlo |
|
5 hours ago | By Mike Armenti Mitch Marner Asked By Leafs to Waive NMC for Trade Deadline Blockbuster, But Declines |
|
7 hours ago | By Mike Armenti Brayden Schenn Reveals the Truth Behind Why He Blocked a Trade to the Maple Leafs |
|
9 hours ago | By Ryan Smitheram Insider Shares Frustrating Report on Leafs Star Mitch Marner Following Hectic Trade Deadline |
|
10 hours ago | By Ryan Smitheram Leafs' Push for Rantanen Reportedly About Mitch Marner for Not Negotiating in Good Faith |
|
11 hours ago | By Nick Matthews Scott Laughton, Brandon Carlo Share Wonderful Reactions to Being Acquired by the Leafs |