I wouldn't really call intentionally breaking someone's neck a "stupid PC drama". And the punishment of being suspended for a year does seem rather tame, considering if I went out and did that to someone I'd be looking a several months in jail, a hefty fine, and a possible lawsuit.
Hockey is a violent sport, but it's not a blood sport. If you don't want the game to degenerate into state-sanctioned brawling, then people who break the rules should be punished severely.