WHL makes neck guards mandatory for players

The WHL is making a major equipment change in the wake of former NHLer Adam Johnson's death.

The major junior hockey league announced the adoption of mandatory neck guard protection for all players Wednesday, with the change officially coming into effect Nov. 3 or as soon as the equipment is available to all 22 clubs.

Under the new rule, players will be required to wear neck guards during all on-ice activities, including games and practices.

Johnson, 29, died Saturday after suffering a slashed neck in a freak accident while playing for the EIHL's Nottingham Panthers in England.

NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly said Tuesday that the league will look into using neck guards following Johnson's death.

"There is no reason we shouldn't be doing everything possible to keep our players safe," Daly said.

The WHL added that it expects challenges in acquiring neck guards from licensed suppliers as a result of an increased demand.