its a very different league from 5 years ago...10 years ago. its almost unrecognizable to me and makes me feel very old. I think you have to pass the torch of management AND SCOUTING to a new generation of professionals. people who know the nuances of the game today and can predict countermeasures and evolutions of play as 31 coaches and teams try to adapt and change on the fly.
I think we have too many people that are still in an old mindset in scouting pro and amateur..., old mindset of style, team architect etc. Also old school minded as far as dealing with UFAs and trades etc. This isnt that world anymore. For example...i dont think teams failing to make the playoffs should be so willing to give players for draft picks at the TDL. the players still have value to the players in the room etc. The player being traded doesnt deserve a chance to play in the playoffs most of the time as well so to he!! with the good will sentiment unless its a icon who truly deserves it. I dont mean dont do it...but i do mean it definitely should be less common. UFAs still have value at the draft...but nonetheless they do fill a spot on your current roster and insulate other players. i think long term its healthier to hang on to guys (which also keeps your depth guys/prospects in their proper roles where they should be). it also adds some accountability that people are going to deal with the mess they made themselves.
I dont think the league will ever be the mans league of war that it used to be. kind of a boring highlight reel league now. the hits highlights every week were common checks from 10 years ago...most wouldnt have been noticed by the hockey die hard of that time. would just be another guy finishing a check and closing his gap.
we wont be going back to that kind of league unless some rival league comes up and has players sign waivers to cover their back sides. everything is bubble wrapped now.