This is the crux of the issue: different era viewed in hindsight. Rose colored glasses, but going the opposite way.
Why is it that Stevens is forever brought up with these discussions, but the other of the same rough era (80s to pre-lockout) are never mentioned?
Marchment - Knee and head hunter, and purposely so. Played to intentionally injure players.
Hatcher - Just as much of a 'head hunter' as Stevens, but more often than not hit players well OUTSIDE the play, and often charged and made runs at guys as retaliation.
Williams - A bit earlier but was know to cross check his opponents in the head, or butt-ending guys in the face.
Ciccarelli - Known to club guys in the head with his stick. It wasn't only once, he did a number of times.
The list goes on and on. Most of the guys I could list are considered 'good, hard playing warriors' or are fan favorites but somehow Stevens is a POS for playing within the rules of the day.
You can find interviews with guys about Stevens hits:
Lindros stated quite clearly, 'These things happen and we move forward'.
Ron Francis said he felt no ill will, he's a tough competitor.
Koslov never said much, but from what I've gathered most of the Detroit team accepted it as a good hit. No one went after Stevens except Ciccarelli.
The hit on Willis upset some guys in Carolina, but the coach at the time said it was a fine hit.
And before it gets mentioned again, Stevens was not some 'no-talent' hack. You don't get into the HHOF simply on hitting. He lost out on the Norris by something like 5 votes to Bourque; not exactly 'talentless' if the Norris is that close.
How coincidental was it that the Capitals became successful while he was on their roster, then took a small step back once he left?
The Blues should have won it all the year he was captain, but ran up against a ridiculously strong Minnesota team in the 2nd round and had Oates/Hull/Sutter all disappear in that series.
The Devils finally had stability after he arrived and maintained it until his retirement.
