Voila_Capture 2014-04-12_09-22-04_PM

Dan Bylsma and his glasses, fresh off yet another loss to the Flyers, were asked if they were worried about Kris Letang, who was playing in just his second game after recovering from a stroke. Bylsma’s response was quite possibly the most Penguin thing ever. From Steve Whyno of the Canadian Press:

After the Flyers’ 4-3 overtime win, Bylsma was asked if — even though doctors assured the team and the 26-year-old defenceman that hockey would not put him more at risk for another stroke — he had a little pause seeing Hartnell and Letang shoving each other.

“I did have that thought when that was going on there,” said Bylsma. “(Letang) kind of had the play there and the puck on his skate to try to score a goal. It fell off his stick and the whistle and everything ensued after that. Yeah it does, a guy picking on a guy who had a stroke.”

A team spokeswoman said Bylsma was joking when he made that remark.

Was he joking? You be the judge:

I say no.

Craig Berube responded thusly upon hearing Bylsma’s comment:

Told of Bylsma’s comment regarding Hartnell without the benefit of much context, Flyers coach Craig Berube fired back.

“Then he shouldn’t play,” Berube said. “He shouldn’t be out there playing, bottom line. It’s a stupid comment.”

Totally agree, Craigery. I think we all wish Letang nothing but the best. But. But if you’re playing in a hockey game, you’re playing in a hockey game. To imply that Letang should be treated any differently is just ridiculous.

I wonder if Dan Bylsma displays the same concern for players’ well-being when James Neal tries to end careers?