Calgary Flames Raise Questions About Concussion Protocol

The recent suspension of Dennis Wideman has done a number of things, not least bring the Calgary Flames under question for their handling of correct concussion protocol.

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The league-appointed concussion-spotter had notified the Calgary Flames bench that Dennis Wideman was displaying concussion-like symptoms, just moments prior to the defenseman’s cross-check on linesman, Don Henderson.

It is the fact the player was allowed back into the game and wasn’t forcibly taken to the ‘Quiet Room’ for evaluation that brings the league’s protocol on concussions, or at the very least, the Calgary Flames reading of the rules into the spotlight.

Wideman’s suspension for twenty games could be questioned given medical proof is available that the player was suffering from a concussion. In an article on Hockey News, the following is noted:

The NHL essentially corroborated that in the video explaining Wideman’s suspension, saying, “it is accepted for the purposes of this decision that (Wideman) was later diagnosed as having suffered a concussion.” It also goes on to say that, “by (Wideman’s) own admission, he repeatedly refused immediate medical attention and returned to the game.” (Hockey News)

The sheer notion that a player is allowed to refuse medical attention, and go back into the game after having been spotted to display concussion-like symptoms raises big-time questions.

The Calgary Flames shouldn’t have been allowed to let the player get back on the ice. Likewise, the league-appointed spotter should’ve been able to force the Calgary Flames hand into sending Wideman to be properly evaluated.

Concussion protocol isn’t something to be shrugged at, and it’s arguable that the official, Don Henderson should’ve also been removed from the ice. He later went to hospital with concussion-like symptoms, so it seems likely he could’ve suffered one also.

If players are subject to the concussion-spotters, officials should also be subject to them. The spotters should also have the power, in this case, to force both to undergo evaluation regardless of the impact to the teams; Calgary Flames or on-ice officials.

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What are your thoughts on the NHL’s concussion protocol?

Should Dennis Wideman be held to the twenty-game suspension or should he be given a lesser penalty given the symptoms of a concussion were present?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.