Trio of 'Pukes' Could Sue Cherry, CBC

Three former NHL enforcers aren't happy with Don Cherry's characterization of them as 'hypocrites' and 'turncoats.'

So this Don Cherry vs. brains feud is getting a little serious, with the three former players that the CBC personality called "pukes" indicating they could sue the public broadcaster if Cherry doesn't apologize to them. Cherry called Stu Grimson, Chris Nilan, and Jim Thomson (all retired NHL enforcers) "pukes," "turncoats," and "hypocrites" for speaking out about fighting and brain injuries in the NHL after the deaths of tough guys Derek Boogard, Rick Rypien, and Wade Belak. Cherry took back the "pukes" part of the statement on Saturday night, although the Montreal Gazette's sources suggest the three are still unhappy over Cherry's characterization of them and could possibly sue the CBC and Cherry for a full apology. Cherry's Thursday night rant against opponents of fighting and career-ending headshots has dominated the league's first week, at least when Toronto Maple Leafs fans haven't been planning a Stanley Cup parade route after starting the season 2-0.