Report: NHL considering 10-game suspensions for goalie fights

The NHL is considering the implementation of a rule that would curb goalie fights by levying a 10-game suspension for incidents similar to the fight between Braden Holtby of the Washington Capitals and Ray Emery of the Philadelphia Flyers on Nov. 1. 

According to Chuck Gormley of CSN Washington, the penalty could be a 10-game suspension.

When asked about the idea, Holtby said he has nothing against goalie fights and a 10-game suspension sounds too severe. However, he also said that Emery is in “another class” and nothing good could have come from fighting him.

Goalie fighting is part of hockey. If there are two willing combatants it happens. I think it’s more about being an instigator. If you don’t have two willing guys, that’s the problem. I think two goalies willing to fight should be treated like any other players.

What remains to be seen is whether the appetite for such a rule will die down as the Emery / Holtby incident dies down, or if the incident was serious enough to warrant an amendment of the rule book.