After experiencing his fourth concussion, and dealing with the symptoms thereof, the Boston Bruins have begun to discuss the possibility of shutting Marc Savard down for the remainder of the season. This is going to be determined after he is re-evaluated on Wednesday, to see how he is progressing in regards to his most recent concussion.
Due to symptoms from post concussion syndrome due to a hit from Matt Cooke of the Penguins, Savard had played in only 25 games this season. Thus far, he has totalled 10 points (2 goals and 8 assists) with a rating of -7. At this juncture, losing Savard for the season would not be thought of as a major loss to the Bruins, since they had managed to start well without him.
However, the long term ramifications of these concussions do have to be considered with Savard. He has had four concussions over his career, including two in the past ten months. Each subsequent concussions makes it easier to get another one, leading to a vicious circle, especially in a sport such as hockey. At this point, the Bruins are looking to get him healthy for the 2011-2012 season, but perhaps the outlook should be beyond that point.
Considering the length of time it took Savard to fully recover from the Matt Cooke hit, the focus should be on getting Savard healthy. Brain injuries are a very delicate matter, and something that is not even close to being fully understood. As such, Savard should be asking himself whether or not he is willing to risk taking another hit that may result in long lasting, or permanent, damage. If the answer is no, then he should retire.
Playing so as to avoid injury is the quickest way to ensure that one does become injured. Savard is, by no stretch of the imagination, someone that is considered tough. Regardless, he has been a very gifted scorer in the NHL, and his skills on offense will eventually be missed by the Bruins. However, Savard needs to look at himself and his situation, and ask as to whether or not playing hockey is that important to him.
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