The tragic death of former Pittsburgh Penguin Adam Johnson last year continues to drive change in hockey.
Johnson suffered a fatal neck injury during a game in England when the skate of an opposing player cut him.
In response, numerous hockey organization either mandated or recommended the use of neck guards.
Earlier this week, USA Hockey announced it will mandate neck guards for players and on-ice officials under 18.
The measure will go into effect August 1 because of shortages and supply chain issues for the product.
“I know throughout our organization, the overwhelming opinion was that the time is appropriate to modify our rules related to neck laceration protection,” said executive director Pat Kelleher in a statement. “We’re also encouraged that the hockey industry is committed to continuing to work to improve the cut resistant products that protect players to help influence the safest possible landscape for the game.”
In the days after the incident, the Pittsburgh Penguins mandated the use of neck guards for its minor league teams. Neck guards at the NHL level would need to be part of negotiations with the NHL Players' Association.
The team's President of Business Operations Kevin Acklin told the Big K Morning Show it's a continuing conversation.
"Everybody's focused on what they should be, which is keeping players safe and making sure we honor Adam's legacy so this never happens again."