Yup, it's realistically the only way to look at it. Honestly I used to be that ridiculously manic fan as well, so I can understand that passion.
I think what's changed for me is listening to these hockey podcast's over the last couple of years and when they interview current and former players. You end up seeing the human being more than the player. It has taken the venom out of my critic's for the most part. If I have critics, which I definitely do, I try not to make it personal. I feel like there is a way to be respectfully critical of the way one is playing without attacking the fabric of their being. Like you said regarding Mitch, there are some who can't wait to call this guy mentally weak the second he comes up short in a big game. Which when you take a step back and think about that for a second is kinda f***ed up. Especially in the world we live in today with almost everyone dealing with some form of mental health issue. If Mitch is battling some mental hurdles, is that not something we as a fanbase should want to support him with? If not support, maybe just not use it as ammo against him??
I just feel like I have a deeper appreciation for these athletes now. When you see these players as people first, it gives you an understanding that they still make human mistakes on the ice. Despite their talents. I still get choked like any sports fan on the planet, but I'll never let it effect me beyond an hour or 2. It's not worth it for anyone. As much as we all obsess over everything related to this team, at the end of the day it's still just a game. These guys have families to go home to and lives outside of hockey.
Maybe Rodion's misfortune can serve as a wakeup call to all of us.