I believe in law and order. Without it, there is chaos. That isn’t just true on the streets in everyday life. It’s true in NFL stadiums, NHL rinks, NBA arenas and MLB ballparks. Referees, umpires and linesmen must be protected at all costs. If they’re not, there will be no more sports.
That’s why Dennis Wideman’s hearing today in New York with NHL commissioner Gary Bettman is so important. Wideman, a Calgary Flames defenseman, was suspended for 20 games by the league after he viciously cross-checked linesman Don Henderson from behind in a game Jan. 27 against Nashville.