Usually on OTB when we bring up the NHL it is because of an awesome hockey fight, the Stanley Cup, or a nice goal by Sidney Crosby or Alexsander Ovechkin.
Well, Montreal Canadiens defensiveman Georges Laraque has sparked controversy regarding an online advertisement for alcholic energy drink called "Octane 7.0". In the advertisement, there are some scandily-clad ladies who try to stop Laraque's patented spin move. (By the way, the video is NSFW)
This has now sparked a controversy that has gotten to the point where the NHL might suspend Laraque for his actions in endorsing an alcholic beverage. The NHL rulebook states in Article 25.1 of the collective bargaining agreement that no NHL player can endorse or sponsor an alcholic beverage.
Since this outrage over this commercial, Laraque has apologized and mentioned the only reason why he did the advertisement was to raise money for a wildlife charity.
To be honest, I can completely understand the outrage over something like this since he is an athlete and a role model to some kids in Canada. However in our society, we are quick to condemn female nudity and yet we can show torture porn (AKA Saw VI) and not even bat an eye. The women's groups that seem to condemn these sort of commercials should be more focused on trying to promote their cause instead of ripping a viral video.
I do agree with the point made by Yahoo's NHL blog "Puck Daddy" in stating in the advertisement is not that sexist in comparison to other more risque ads. Also, the women who appeared in the video were paid actors who seemed to have no problem "slutting up".
Laraque at best should be fined by the NHL specifically if it is listed in the collective bargaining agreement. I do not think a suspension should be warranted for someone who did a online viral video that to be honest is nothing worst than we see elsewhere.
"No, No, Too Sexy": Georges Laraque's controversial commercial
