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.
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.
| 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 | ||
