From the Pressbox: An Unsavory Element

An Unsavory Element in the NHL

We continue to see a string of familiar names involved in negative play in the NHL as star players are victimized by illegal hits and other roughhouse tactics that have cost the league in terms of injury to marquee players.

The most recent incident involves Patrick Kaleta, who was disciplined for the fourth time in his career when he was suspended for a cross check for behind on Brad Richards, star forward of the New York Rangers. Inexplicably, some Buffalo supporters contend that Richards embellished the act by hurling himself into the boards, face first. Imagine that, for a moment, before being reminded of Kaleta's track record.

What further tarnishes the offender in this instance is that he is rarely seen as a challenger of opposing tough guys who sort out their issues and distribute their own brand of justice by dropping their mitts from time to time.

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