After Adam Johnson’s death, T.J. Oshie tests neck guard shirts

Tom Wilson, a winger for the Washington Capitals, recently began wearing a neck guard after the tragic death of former NHL player Adam Johnson. Johnson’s neck was cut by a skate blade during a game, prompting Wilson to reconsider the importance of neck protection. Wilson decided to try out a base layer shirt with a built-in neck guard from Warroad, a hockey gear company co-founded by his teammate T.J. Oshie. Wilson found the neck guard to be comfortable and is considering wearing it in games. He noted that while other parts of the body are protected with cut-proof materials, the neck has been largely ignored in terms of safety precautions. With the game getting faster and hits becoming harder, Wilson believes it is essential to prioritize neck protection. Oshie also wore the same shirt in a game and hopes that his decision will encourage others, both in the NHL and at the youth level, to prioritize neck protection. Other players, such as Rasmus Dahlin and Nikolaj Ehlers, have also been seen wearing neck guards. While the NHL does not mandate neck guards, some minor league teams and junior leagues have made them mandatory. The Capitals’ coach, Spencer Carbery, believes that incidents like Johnson’s death push the hockey community to find ways to improve safety without compromising player comfort. Oshie, with the help of Warroad, developed the shirt with neck protection after the death of a high school hockey player earlier this year. The shirts have already sold out and garnered significant interest from players. Oshie acknowledges that every player has a choice when it comes to neck protection but is committed to sharing his insight and believes in the importance of protecting oneself for the sake of their loved ones.

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Sarah Anderson

Sarah Anderson dives into the fast-paced world of NHL hockey. Her coverage includes game analysis, player spotlights, and the latest news from the ice. Sarah’s dedication to the sport ensures that hockey enthusiasts stay informed about the NHL’s thrilling action.