TJ Oshie received ‘around 100’ texts about cut-resistant equipment following death of Adam Johnson

The hockey community suffered a profound loss over the weekend with the tragic death of former NHL player Adam Johnson. Johnson was fatally cut in the neck by an opposing player’s skate while playing for the Nottingham Panthers of the EIHL. This devastating incident has ignited a discussion at all levels of the sport about the need for neck protection.

TJ Oshie, a winger for the Capitals and owner of the company Warroad, has been a proponent of cut-resistant gear. Despite not currently wearing a neck guard himself, Oshie has been flooded with messages from players considering using this type of protection following Johnson’s accident.

In an interview with the Associated Press’ Stephen Whyno, Oshie revealed that around 100 players have reached out to him inquiring about cut-resistant gear. While the NHL and AHL do not currently mandate neck protection, it is required in the OHL and QMJHL Canadian junior leagues.

Warroad announced on Monday afternoon that they have sold out of their neck and wrist protection products and have opened a waitlist for future restocks.

Update on TILO Neck & Wrist. Our thoughts are with Adam Johnson’s family and community.

We started a waitlist for those interested in getting notified when we are back in stock https://t.co/Zc8orxSiag

Sticks out for Adam Johnson. pic.twitter.com/8FT8T8mouT

— Warroad Hockey Co. (@WarroadHockeyCo) October 30, 2023

“It’s just crazy, sad, and we don’t have anything left,” Oshie expressed to Whyno. “We’re thinking about his family first. We’ll try to get as many products out there as we can for people.”

According to ESPN’s Emily Kaplan, numerous NHL players are contemplating the adoption of neck protection, both for their own safety and to set an example for younger players.

I’ve talked to several NHL players who are now considering trying out protective neck guards. Will be interesting to see how many stick.

Neck guards aren’t mandated by USA Hockey – but many believe that’s a good first step to normalize wear for players coming up. https://t.co/kISvVLtRSj

— Emily Kaplan (@emilymkaplan) October 30, 2023

Among those planning to try out neck protection is Oshie himself. He stated on Monday that he had ordered several of Warroad’s cut-resistant turtlenecks for himself and his Capitals teammates, although the products had not yet arrived in Washington.

“I just wish these things never had to be made, and injuries like this would never happen, because it’s so sad,” Oshie expressed to Mark Lazerus of The Athletic the day before. “It hits me pretty hard, just thinking about my kids. I could take one to the neck tonight. And for them to not have a father — it’s just so sad and it makes me think twice about protecting myself and my neck out there. Whether it looks cool or not.”

The EIHL, which intends to resume play this weekend, has announced that neck protection will soon become mandatory for all players. However, due to potential supply shortages, the league will not enforce this requirement until December 31, allowing players sufficient time to obtain the necessary gear. Nevertheless, the league has strongly recommended immediate adoption of neck protection.

The AHL has also witnessed an increased interest in cut-resistant equipment. Several members of the Providence Bruins wore protective turtlenecks during their game against the Springfield Thunderbirds on Sunday.

you can kind of see them here https://t.co/eFEkskIh7o pic.twitter.com/fFFprDpxmm

— hope (@mikazibanejads) October 29, 2023

Seth Appert, head coach of the Rochester Americans, disclosed that his team has already placed an order for additional neck guards and protective turtlenecks.

Per Rochester head coach Seth Appert, the team has ordered additional neck guards along with the base layer shirt-neck guard combination.

Some players already have adopted them. pic.twitter.com/eoCJIu1MLo

— PATRICK WILLIAMS (@pwilliamsAHL) October 30, 2023

With more and more players considering the adoption of cut-resistant protection, TJ Oshie and Warroad could play a crucial role in this movement.

Headline photo: Alan Dobbins/RMNB