You haven't needed one for 5-6 years because we haven't been in the playoffs. If you've been watching the evolution, it's been turning nastier, cheaper and more violent. The first few rounds of the playoffs were a bloodbath.
I'm not saying that 'goons' are ever necessary, nor that 'enforcers' play a role. But 4th line guys who bring energy and make defensemen cringe and most importantly can make it so that guys like Hall and Nico don't have to fight are valuable.
How much did Tom Wilson sign that ridiculous contract for?
Why did Reaves demand any price at all on the trade market?
Tom Wilson, Ryan Reaves have perplexing presence at Stanley Cup final
If Wood keeps one guy from going on the DL because he steps in, he's proved his value. When we get to the playoffs and long series, it'll become more important to our team.