You’ve probably heard by now, but the NHL decided to fine Ryan Getzlaf for $10,000 today following what was called “inappropriate” talk on a hot mic. A lot has been said about the validity of the fine on both sides, but one guy was still left to be heard.
Following a tough loss in game 5, Getzlaf addressed the media with the following comments.
“Obviously a situation like that where I’m on the bench by myself, frustration set in,” Getzlaf said after the Ducks lost 3-1 in Game 5 at Honda Center on Saturday. “There was obviously some words said, not necessarily directed at anyone in particular, it was just kind of a comment.
‘I’ve got to be a little bit more responsible … the words I choose.’
‘We talked to the League,’ he said. ‘I understand that it’s my responsibility to not use vulgar language, period. Whether it’s a swear word or whatever it is, we’ve got to be a little bit more respectful of the game and that’s up to me and I accept that responsibility and we’ll move forward.
“That’s my responsibility … is to understand there’s eyes and ears on us all the time. Fortunately enough, nobody heard it. If you can read lips, it’s a little bit harder and I apologize for that. That’s the thing you won’t hear from me again. I hope I didn’t offend anybody outside the circle that we trust.”
Needless to say, it will leave a small mark on him. Of course, the money is irrelevant, but being spotted as a supposedly homophobic player can hurt an ego. Hopefully, he will learn from all this and keep his high level of play going.
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