[jml87]

So, similar circumstances between these two hits, just different reactions.

Flyers reaction to hit on Talbot

Flyers do not retaliate or stick up for their teammate who is hit with a hard check, possibly to the head. However, Flyers go on to win the game and they didn't have to go on the penalty kill for starting a scuffle with the offender.

Richards reacts to hit on Kopitar

Immediately after the hit, Richards fights Morrow which leads to big penalty time and Dallas uses this powerplay time to tie the game. Kings end up losing in the SO.

After seeing these two hits, I was wondering people's opinions. Both teams are up by one goal with minimal time left in the period. Kopitar is obviously way more important than a guy like Talbot, but Talbot is still a nice player, a good leader, and important to the Flyers team. So my question is should you go after another player who delivers a big hit on your teammate even at the cost of a large penalty?

My opinion is that, unless it's a playoff game or one that has major playoff implications, you stand up for your teammate. In the old days, it was a no brainer, but with the insane amount of penalty minutes you get nowadays, it's a little bit tougher of a decision.

But helping teammates is important. It unites a team, shows leadership, and shows the other team that they can't just skate around and go after your teammates. So even if we gained both those points against Dallas, I know I would've been pretty pissed to see the Kings do what the Flyers did after a hit on Kopitar.