Hockey News --- For most players, like sidelined Flyers forward Ian Laperriere, they simply haven't abandoned their outdated attitudes that wearing a shield means a player isn't tough. Facemasks aren't hip—and only the real macho players are willing to take the ice without them.
Some players once felt the same way about helmets and other protective gear. Now, keeping heads safe is mandatory. Eyes could be next.
The time could be near when visors are as much a part of the game as sticks and gloves.
"Sometimes you have to save the players from themselves," said Pierre McGuire, an NHL analyst for NBC and Versus.
Added Vancouver Canucks head coach Alain Vigneault: "Visors should be mandatory."
Goon's World Extras
▼