Whittle, the player on the receiving end of the hit, was subsequently hospitalized due to the severity of the collision. While the Silvertips have confirmed that he will make a full recovery, they have not provided a specific timeline for his return to the lineup.
In response to the incident, the Silvertips released a statement expressing their support for Whittle, stating,
"Our thoughts are with Dexter and his family during this difficult time,"
as reported by the Victoria Times Colonist newspaper.
This is not the first time Edwards has faced suspension in the WHL. During the previous season, he served two suspensions, a fact that the WHL took into account when determining the length of his current suspension.
The WHL clarified its decision, stating,
"In addition to the severity of Edwards' actions, other key factors considered in the decision include the severe injury to the opponent on the play and the fact Edwards is a repeat offender."
The Royals have opted not to contest the suspension, accepting the league's judgment.
