In a heartbreaking turn of events, former NHL player Greg Johnson has been posthumously diagnosed with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), shedding light on the dangers of head injuries in professional hockey.
The announcement of Johnson’s diagnosis has prompted his family and the foundation to advocate for increased awareness and player safety measures within the NHL. Johnson’s daughter, Carson, expressed her shock and devastation, stating, āI had no idea what CTE even stood for when my dad took his life. Now understanding that the hits he endured throughout his hockey career damaged his brain, I want all athletes to understand the risks and I want the NHL to start acknowledging it exists and do more to protect its players so other daughters donāt have to lose their fathers.ā
CTE has become a significant issue in both the NHL and NFL, where the physical nature of the sports leads to frequent head injuries. Players like Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and former Stanley Cup Champion Andrew Shaw have faced the consequences of concussions, highlighting the urgent need for better player safety protocols. While the NFL has acknowledged the link between head trauma and CTE, the NHL has yet to do so.
With a career spanning 785 games across various NHL teams, including the Nashville Predators, Chicago Blackhawks, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Detroit Red Wings, Johnson was a respected figure in the hockey community. He even achieved a silver medal at the 1994 Olympics with Team Canada. Serving as the second team captain in Predators history, Johnson’s legacy on the ice was unfortunately cut short due to ongoing concussion issues that ultimately led to his retirement after the 2005-06 season.
As the hockey world grapples with the devastating news of Johnson’s CTE diagnosis, it serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and risks athletes face in pursuit of their passion. The call for greater awareness and protective measures within the NHL grows louder, echoing the sentiments of Johnson’s family and the foundation in hopes of preventing further tragedies in the future.
