There's a valid point in not hurrying young prospects into the grown-up world of hockey. While some may handle it well, it can be risky if they're still growing or haven't fully filled out their frame.
At just 17 years old, defenseman Adam Jiricek is playing in the Czechia Extraliga, a men's pro league. Unfortunately, he faced a brutal hit from 27-year-old Jan Scotka, and the footage is hard to watch.
Witness the hit on 17-year-old, 152-pound defenseman Adam Jiricek in the Czechia Extraliga delivered by 27-year-old, 201-pound Jan Scotka. It's a clear example of why pushing kids into men's leagues too soon can be problematic. The age and weight difference between Jiricek and Scotka, a decade and 50 pounds, makes it difficult to watch.
