The family of Canadian-born Derek Boogaard is suing the National Hockey League for the player’s death two years ago at the age of 28.
The league is responsible for brain damage he suffered while playing and for his addiction to prescription painkillers, alleges the family.
Boogaard was forced to fight, they say. After his death, tests showed he suffered from a degenerative brain disorder believed to be caused by repeated blows to the head. Head injuries have become a major cause of concern for hockey players at all levels.
Boogaard family members expressed concern to the league about the high number of pain pills he was prescribed but contend they were told not to worry.
An accidental mix of alcohol and prescription drugs was the official cause of death.
“This lawsuit will unearth the failed policies that have led to the demise of so many NHL Fighters and bring to light the need for meaningful change in the NHL so that families, like the Boogaards, can rest easier knowing that their loved ones are safe,” said lawyer William T. Gibbs, representing the Estate of Boogaard.
For reasons beyond our control, and for an undetermined period of time, our comment section is now closed. However, our social networks remain open to your contributions.