NHL GMs Address Player Safety After Casey Fitzgerald's Neck Injury

Tom Fitzgerald's emotional plea highlights the need for protective equipment following his son's near-fatal injury during an AHL game.

Casey Fitzgerald, son of New Jersey Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald, suffered a skate blade cut to his neck during a December 2024 AHL game, requiring 25 stitches.
Tom Fitzgerald shared his son's story at the NHL GMs meeting, urging players to prioritize safety and adopt cut-resistant equipment such as neck guards.
The NHL has not mandated cut-resistant gear for players, though it is required at youth and minor league levels, including the AHL and ECHL.
Resistance from NHL players, citing discomfort and performance concerns, has slowed the adoption of protective equipment at the professional level.
The NHL and NHLPA continue to explore educational initiatives and policy options to encourage wider use of protective gear, though no immediate changes have been announced.