The National Hockey League (NHL) was sued by Steve Montador’s father, defending that the late badass knowingly damaged his brain.
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Paul Montador initiated a lawsuit against the Bettman Circuit for his role in the 2015 death of his son at the age of 35. A few months after his death, a group of researchers concluded that Montador suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) from his multiple concussions.
According to the NHL’s version of events, compiled by TSN reporter Rick Westhead, medics had issued repeated warnings to the 571-game veteran, who had suffered no fewer than 11 concussions in the league.
“Throughout his life, Montador has struggled with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, insomnia and abusive relationships,” the NHL wrote. Although Montador was briefed many times on the long-term risks associated with head injuries, including ETC, Montador continued to play in the NHL for several years.
The Bettman circle noted that Drs. Elizabeth Pieroth and Michael Terry, two doctors with the Chicago Blackhawks, examined Montador in 2012 and clearly explained to him the risks he was facing. However, he returned to the American Hockey League a few months later.
“Montador has specifically told the Blackhawks medical staff that he took the risks of continuing to play hockey professionally,” the NHL continued.
Also in KHL
Meanwhile, the league credits the Vancouver native’s brain damage to his junior career and 11-game stint in the Kontinental Hockey League in 2013-14.
“None of his injuries can be attributed to his NHL career,” she said, although the lawsuit alleges Montador suffered four concussions in a three-month period in 2012.
During his career, the former defenseman also played for the Calgary Flames, Florida Panthers, Anaheim Ducks, Boston Bruins and Buffalo Sabers.
A few years before his death, in 2011, former strongmen Wade Belak, Rick Rypien and Derek Boogaard also died. Autopsies had confirmed they had ETC.