Theories on the Decline of the Enforcer Role

According to hockeyfights.com, the leading resource for on-ice pugilism, there have been fewer fights this year than in each of the previous four. Excepting the two years following the 2004-05 lockout — when new rules changed the game on the ice, as well as off — the NHL season is on pace to end with fewer fights than seen in at least the last decade.

There are plenty of theories to explain why, from evolving coaching strategies to a hyper-competitive schedule borne from the NHL’s quest for parity among its teams. Those who might once have made a living solely as a fighter have faced a choice: adapt or disappear.