The mindset that overlooks dirty plays is fundamentally flawed and detrimental to the league. Players are the league's most valuable assets—their talents and abilities, whether on offense, defense, or in goaltending, are what draw fans to games and drive ticket sales. When a player, as an asset, is sidelined due to an injury from an illegal play, their value is diminished, and the league suffers as a result.
For example, if a star like McDavid is injured and the league fails to take action, it risks losing significant marketing value. Fans may hesitate to buy tickets to Oilers games if he’s absent, leaving seats unsold. Opposing fans also purchase tickets specifically to see elite players like McDavid, Hughes, Crosby, or even a game-changing goaltender like Hasek once was. These players elevate the product on the ice.
By imposing hefty suspensions, the league can hold players accountable. A substantial suspension means a loss of pay, which serves as a strong deterrent. This sends a clear message to every player in the league: illegal plays that injure others will have serious consequences. Protecting the league’s assets ensures the game remains compelling for fans and preserves its overall integrity.
Referees also play a critical role by enforcing rules during the game. I’d suggest allowing coaches to request reviews of undetected dirty plays. This could prevent escalating tensions that lead to scrums after every whistle, where offended players still on the ice get dragged into senseless fights for the rest of the game. Giving coaches this tool would help keep the game clean and focused on skill rather than chaos.