They dont have the same time & space of earlier generations either, so yes, handicapped somewhat. Ceases to amaze me in watching todays game how few players actually look at what their shooting at, just one time it with their head down, havent even telegraphed where it is their putting it on the net. So certainly, kudo's to Ovi & others. In the purest sense of "Sniper", old school, I would rate Mike Bossy as probably the purest Ive ever seen in that regard, others mentioning Gretzky & Lemieux, Kurri, Brett & Bobby Hull etc & yes, all great examples as well.
But to me, Mike Bossy the one guy who really epitomized that particular label. Someone who could absolutely thread a needle, amazingly fast release, really picked his goals, hard to read if your facing him as a Goalie as he'd vary the speed of shots. Had quite the full shot portfolio while at the same time as likely to pass it off if you did have a bead on him & he had nothing to shoot at. So both patient & unselfish. Deadly combination.... Beyond the "Michelin Man" goaltenders, less time & space, constant passing & cycle game, the one-timers, stick technology is also a factor.