This adds to the long list of things tossed on the ice during games. Hats, octopi, rats, snakes, salmon, catfish, beef, sharks... they have all been tossed from the cheering crowd onto NHL ice.
I don't like the idea of tossing things beyond hats on NHL ice, but accept some of them as a traditional part of the game with known and accepted consequences. Kinda like fighting, though I am much more accepting of fights on the ice than dead animals on the ice. I absolutely do not accept any of the new variations of the "celebration" or "intimidation" tosses as part of the game and even want the old traditions to fade away, though I know full well they never will. That's why I have to learn to accept the old while I shun the new.
A dead animal used for nothing but a few cheers or boos (nothing useful such as food) is a discusting act. And forget the humane aspect: it's a sanitation issue.
Unfortunately, some think this will start a new trend. I hope not. San Jose visits Anaheim on January 4. Will we see another shark on the ice? Will the NHL step in? If so, how would they police it? Should the NHL step in? What if it spreads?
Back in 1996, Florida fans were making a playoff run and began tossing plastic rats on the ice. The NHL decided enough is enough and sent out a warning to the Panthers and created Rule 63.4 for everyone: Objects thrown on the ice can result in a bench minor penalty to the home team. Exceptions are in place for special events, like hat tricks.
Arenas realize that the practice of fans tossing things is dangerous and self-monitor the situation. With Florida's success this year, the Panthers have started selling plastic rats in the team store. But they also have a warning in every cup holder in the arena.
Don't throw any rats and "rat out" anyone that does. With a hellfire rat logo.
I won't be surprised if the NHL banned the sell of these "toys" or even fined the organization if there's a mass rain of rats during the season. Mainly because they are selling the items to be tossed.
I'm not so sure the NHL will step in and make any more rules to put a definate end to tossing anytime soon. It would take a lot more things being tossed in arenas, an injury to someone in the stands or on the ice, or a mass event.
I really don't think much will come of these events in and of themselves. It happens from time to time and the NHL just lets the arenas handle it for the most part. Just thought I'd throw the stories up there.
Oh, back to the duck tossed in San Jose.
If it was meant to intimidate the Ducks, it didn't work.
Anaheim won the game 3-2.
