[Machiavelli]

^ Don't completely agree with your point, but I do think that in some ways, the NHL has become more methodical, almost clinical.

I've noticed a general trend of creativity taking a backseat to a more a careful game.

One example would be the way Therrien has effectively neutered Subban. When he entered the league he was an offensive firecracker. Yeah, he made a lot of mistakes, and yeah he's probably overall a better defenceman now, but he's become boring (on the ice.)

Coaches care about winning and not so much the entertainment aspect, whereas fans want the best of both worlds. That can be hard to reconcile.