Ah, the days of the instigator rule. I agree that much of the stickwork and cheap-shotery would be gone from the game if that rule were axed.
One of my favourite leaf moments was when Tucker (on Tampa at the time) nailed Sundin in a game at the Gardens. (One of the very few games I actually got to see live). Steve Thomas came in and gave Tucker a few shots, nothing major, and the scuffle ended with Tucker telling Thomes he'd break his nose (grabbing his own nose and wiggling it, and pointing to Thomas).
Well, later in the game, both players drop 'em and go. It was a fairly even fight, with Thomas probably winning by a split decision. On the way to the box, Thomas checks his nose, finds it isn't broken, and gives Tucker the
look. What a great guy Thomas was - he is definately missed!
Honestly I don't consider Tucker a cheapshot artist, but I do think that he occasionally steps over the very fine line of playing dirty. But I know from experience that when you're playing balls to the wall at 99% throttle, accidents happen all too easily.
I heard on the way home that Ottawa picked up Ray - he's definately part of what Ottawa has lacked in previous post-seasons. Both teams seem to be making a legitimate stab at it this year!
