The Instigators: Episode 13: Skip All-Star Weekend

With the Bruins on the road in Washington for their last game before the dreaded All-Star break, the Instigators were operating shorthanded with Tom moderating Billy J and Barry P.
One item of discussion centered around Alexander Ovechkin choosing to skip All-Star weekend because he disagreed with his recent three game suspension for his hit on the Penguins’ Zbynek Michalek. I do not know why Ovechkin is being such a sour puss; it was a clear charge and dangerous hit. A hit the NHL ruled “recklessly” made contact with the Pittsburgh defenseman’s head.
The question came about when it is acceptable to skip the All-Star game as a player. I would contend that whatever filmy excuse one wants to use should be acceptable. This year perennial fan favorites Teemu Selänne and Nicklas Lidström both bailed out. When you’re that old and attended so many All-Star games, might as well give up your spot to some young gun and rest up for the stretch run.