While the NHL sport often sees players getting involved in controversies, this time the level has escalated. One of the most controversial figures in the NHL is back in the limelight now. John Tortorella, the current coach of the Philadelphia Flyers had made a bizarre rule that has grabbed the world globe.
On the morning of January 18, the players of the Philadelphia Flyers woke up with unusual news. The decision is getting a lot of attention from fans.
A decision to remove Ipads during the NHL game
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Although Tortorella has had innumerable controversies in his career, the latest controversy came when the 64-year-old announced a bizarre decision for his team. Tortorella announced that he would restrict the use of Ipads during the games. This information came as a shock due to its serious implications on players’ performances.
The coach explained the reason behind the decision. He said that the decision was made to increase players’ presence of mind in the game. The main concern for Tortorella was the lack of in-game momentum due to the technology. “You cannot understand the momentum of the game if you are constantly looking at the Ipad,” he said in an interview.
On the other hand, the sudden removal of the Ipad from the dugout is becoming a headache for the players. The players are used to reviewing their performances and mistakes through Ipad. This helps them in improvising their strategies in real-time.
Fans split opinions on the decision
The decision seems to be a useless and bizarre step to many people. On the other hand, there are a lot of fans who supported the step. Social media was flooded with reactions and comments about the decision.
My father is John tortella pic.twitter.com/cOw89RUF
— Molly Skrable (@mollyskrable) January 28, 2012
There is a long list of fans who were frustrated with Tortorella’s long history of unusual steps. A fan wrote ‘I’m just waiting for someone to get a puck in the face starring at the iPad’. Another fan highlighted the multi-fold aspects of the decision. He wrote, ‘I think it’s good, but I’d still keep one around to show the really critical things. It’s about balance’
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Another fan took the coach’s favour and highlighted the courageous nature of the man. ‘When things aren’t going well, you gotta make a change, even if it feels like a sideways move. Torts is still in the league because he’s got the courage to make those controversial moves.’
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A fan focussed on the blunt nature of Tortorella and said “This guy is like a strict father, like nothing you’ve ever seen,”. Another fan had complete faith in his choices and wrote, “Genius of a coach.” While fans are giving mixed reactions, what do you think about the issue? Do let us know in the comment box.