As you probably already know, the hockey world was shaken by the passing of Adam Johnson yesterday. The forward succumbed to a horrific on-ice accident.

With their usual class, the Canadiens organization issued an official statement to pay tribute to Johnson.

“The Canadiens offer their deepest condolences to the family and closed ones of former Pittsburgh Penguins forward, Adam Johnson, who passed away yesterday following a tragic accident during a professional hockey game in England. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and teammates during these difficult times.”

– Montreal Canadiens

This type of injury is likely the biggest fear of hockey players, yet too few of them wear the famous neck guard. Even when players do wear a turtleneck, somewhat like Tomas Plekanec, they are often ridiculed.

We can now hopefully let those who choose to protect their lives with a neck guard do so without criticism.