As neck guards gradually gain traction in the National Hockey League, three Toronto Maple Leafs players donned the extra protection during Wednesday's practice.
Forward Tyler Bertuzzi, along with defencemen Mark Giordano and Simon Benoit, were all spotted sporting neck guards.
Following the tragic passing Adam Johnson in a game in England, there has been an increase in NHL players testing out neck protection during practices and games.
"I think it makes a lot of sense and I'm in full support of guys if they're comfortable doing that," said Maple Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe following Wednesday's practice. "I think it's a very personal thing, especially when we're in the midst of a season and guys, you know, performing at the highest level with lots of expectations and pressures and such, are very particular about their gear and stuff like that.
"I think the more players that do it, obviously makes them safer, and sends a really important message to young people that it's an important piece of equipment... Safety should be the utmost priority."
According to Sports Illustrated's David Alter, the Maple Leafs provided various options of neck protection for players interested in trying them out. Alter also mentioned that forward William Nylander expressed his interest in testing out a neck guard in the future.
"(It's) a little different for sure, I mean I've never worn one. Well, I wore one when I was kid but not for a long time. Just wanted to try it out," said Giordano of wearing a neck guard. "Probably won't go with the one I wore today, would try something different in the future and go from there.
"...Seeing a lot of guys across the league now starting to wear them and I think, you know, as a dad, for me, it's just an important message to the kids who are watching us on TV."
The Maple Leafs will be back to action Friday, when they take on the Blackhawks in Chicago.
