Duncan Keith banned 5 games as the NHL struggles with rules - DC Breaking Local News Weather Sports FOX 5 WTTG

Make no mistake, my love of hockey can't be questioned. The game is like no other as it combines speed, athleticism and physicality. On the downside, the sport is full of contradictions as the NHL rule book and those who enforce it need further scrutiny. Unlike some in the hockey media, it is against my nature to be an apologist for the NHL.

Speaking of excuses, there isn't any for Duncan Keith's behavior. It was reckless as he did target Daniel Sedin's head with an elbow. Keith deserved to be punished although the length of the suspension could be debated. On Friday, an elbow to the head was worthy of a five game sitdown. Keith will pay for his error in judgment as he will be denied a chunk of his $8,000,000 salary but the cost to his club could be greater.

The Blackhawks will be without Keith's services at a crucial time. The Hawks could slip in the standings or his loss could prevent them from gaining a home ice advantage in the playoffs. Keith will return for the final two games of the regular season and his absence will be felt. Keith saying he wasn't trying to injure Sedin really didn't hold water. Unless players realize the consequences of striking someone in the head, concussions will continue to be a huge problem in the NHL.