"Adding another dirty player seems like a great idea": Hockey fans react to Ryan Getzlaf joining NHL Department of Player Safety

The appointment of former Anaheim Ducks captain Ryan Getzlaf to the NHL Department of Player Safety has stirred up a mix of reactions among hockey fans.

While Getzlaf's career credentials are undeniable, including a Stanley Cup, three All-Star appearances and two Olympic gold medals, some fans have expressed concern about his suitability for the role.

One fan's comment particularly encapsulates this sentiment:

"Awesome, adding another dirty player to Player Safety seems like a great idea."

This reaction highlights the perception some have of Getzlaf as a player who pushed the boundaries of fair play during his career.

Despite never receiving an NHL suspension, Getzlaf was known for his physical style and ability to get under the skin of opponents. His suspension during the 2022 IIHF World Championship quarterfinal for an on-ice incident has been cited by critics as evidence of his sometimes-controversial play.

Another fan jokingly said:

"How about some representation from some of the skill ex players on the receiving end of these hits?"

One fan explains why Getzlaf would be suitable for the player safety department.

"Great hire, since he was a great talent as well as a physical player who understands the game, that's gonna be a perfect fit! happy for him" Wrote on X.

Here are some more fan reactions:

"Still gonna get everything wrong. player safety is a joke and always has been" one fan wrote on X.

"Im optimistic this will be really good for the game" another fan wrote.

"The criminal watching the criminals….. crap" a user commented.

Ryan Getzlaf was drafted by Anaheim in 2003 and played his entire NHL career with the Ducks. He set numerous franchise records, led the team to a Stanley Cup victory in 2007 and was their captain for 12 seasons.

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NHL senior vice-president player safety George Parros' thoughts on Ryan Getzlaf joining NHL DPS

George Parros expressed his enthusiasm about Ryan Getzlaf joining the NHL Department of Player Safety in a press release on Wednesday.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ryan as the newest member of our department," Parros said. "His accomplishments on the ice speak for themselves: he won at every level and was widely respected for being a hard-nosed and highly skilled Player and effective leader.

"From his rookie NHL season in 2005 until his recent retirement, he lived and played through many of the changes our game has seen, which will provide our group with unique and valuable perspective moving forward.” Parros added.

With player safety being more of a focus in recent years, Parros believes Ryan Getzlaf could help bridge the gap between players and the department of player safety in constructive ways.