Why is the NHL so soft nowadays?

[Bassmaster1984]

Was watching an old game from early 90's between Toronto and LA. Massive amounts of hitting and a few scaps. Got me wondering why the game still isn't like this? More figure skating in today's game. Damn, I miss old time hockey!!!

[Bludegeon]

There are a lot more better skaters and skill players then back then.

There is also a salary cap and the most expensive players are needing to be protected..

Gone are the days of the goons patrolling the ice and takin care of business. The refs call a lot more penalties now. It's like in all sports. They start to soften up after a while. Watch an NFL game from 15 years ago. Same thing. Hell, watch an NFL game from just the 90's and you will see a major difference.

[Bassmaster1984]

Very sad.

[Kid-Wicked]

can't hit what you can't catch