Tuned out around here.
Stopped reading altogether here.
We're depressed enough with a lockout, no room for more sadness. If you don't like hockey the way it is then go watch lacrosse.
I love hockey. I've loved hockey for the majority of my 30 years I've been alive. I love that it is a physical sport, what I don't love is the amount of stupid players killing each other because they can with body checks that don't need to be given.
I want fighting out of hockey, I don't think that's a outrageous proposition. This idea that "oh it's a part of hockey" is nonsense, be a little more progressive thinking. This isn't baseball where they're afraid to do anything because "oh it's tradition". My initial post was just delving more deeply into the idea of the real reason why players fight, and obviously a reason for that is when these big hits are given.
As Marvie pointed out, the game is progressing, and the role of a "goon" is indeed fading away, but there are still dirty players who could easily be replaced and the game would be better for it. Stiffer penalties are needed, etc, and when the culture changes, hockey will be better for it.
I love MMA, so the idea of a great fight isn't lost on me, but I'm on the side of the fence that can see hockey being a better sport with a few fundamental changes that would certainly fix the root problems of many of my issues.
Man I am rambling on. I'm hungry. How about them steam sales eh?