Sean Avery - NHL's Bad Boy | 
Sean Avery was granted a second chance in the NHL because he was worthy of it, so it’s about time his critics re-think their position. Professional sports are full of second chances. There are two objectives, which determine whether a player is worthy. If the athlete is even marginally productive at the highest levels and how their wrongdoing pales in comparison to others who were penalized.
Avery has built a reputation as a player who will say what’s on his mind and back it up with his fists. But the reason he’s achieved hockey infamy is because the guy can also play. He’s only been with the New York Rangers for seven games and has notched four goals in his last four games. The Rangers have won five of those games since acquiring Avery. He’s infused the club with energy and will be the driving force in their race to the playoffs.
The league clearly can’t distinguish the difference between apples and oranges when it comes to scrutinizing players
Todd Bertuzzi ended Steve Moore’s career with a cheap headshot and was given a second chance to play the game. His suspension lasted a meager 20 games and the playoffs. The next season the whole mess got swept under the rug. Avery talks a little smack and he almost gets a lifetime ban. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman blew up the incident effectively turning Avery into the dark horse. This just goes to show, the league clearly can’t distinguish the difference between apples and oranges when it comes to scrutinizing player behaviour.
Bertuzzi sought retribution and in the process he inflicted injury on another man. His actions cost an individual his health and welfare. The mess Avery got himself in was nothing more beyond continued feistiness offset by restraint. The only issue was simple civility when it comes to former loves. So to all of Avery’s critics, does the punishment fit the crime
For OpenIceHockey.com, I’m Ashley Mabee
Topics: Gary Bettman, New York Rangers, Sean Avery, Steve Moore, Todd Bertuzzi
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