[quidnunc]

speedy wrote: Tom -- I was being a bit facetious -- I'm just nostalgic for the days of Yvan Cournoyer flying down the ice, and being able to recognize the players without trying to read the jerseys. But more seriously, I do think there is a lot of evidence that there are more injuries -- certainly more concussions -- since helmet use was mandated. When was it, late 70s, early 80s? I think it has actually encouraged more nasty stick work because of a false sense of safety. I guess my argument is equal parts nostalgia, style and safety. What are your thoughts on it?

What killed hockey was the introduction of goons whose only talent is to start fights to break the other team's momentum.

This tactic was introduced by Punch Imlach when he coached the Buffalo Sabres after expansion.

The Sabres were terrible, so he used Tracy Pratt as a goon.

There were always fights in hockey, but it was only after expansion that fighting be came part of the game strategy.

Another thing that hurt hockey as a spectator sport was the switch from advancing the puck along the boards to taking it up the middle.

[speedy]

Concur totally. A Gordie Howe-Doug Harvey fight was one thing. A Tiger Williams-Dave Schultz fight was something else, more like a scripted event.