In the ugly section of the news today, the AHL has made a decision to suspend Krystof Hrabik of the San Jose Barracuda for 30 games after he directed a racial gesture towards Tucson Roadrunners forward Bokondji Imama during a game played on January 12th. The AHL went on to comment:
It is unfair that any player should be subjected to comments or gestures based on their race; they should be judged only on their ability to perform as a player on the ice, as a teammate in the locker room, and as a member of their community.
Hrabik will now be given the opportunity to work with the NHL’s Player Inclusion Committee as his suspension unfolds and participate in education and training on racism and inclusion. In the event that he accepts this invitation, Hrabik can then appeal to Howson for a reduction to his suspension after Mar. 12, with the decision being made based on Hrabik’s progress with the committee.