There's a place for fighting in hockey, for those who want to fight.
To argue that it's not only a deterrent to cheap activity (which, I think it CLEARLY is not), but the best deterrent, is foolish and sophomoric.
You want the cheap hits to stop? The Neal Knee, the Bertuzzi like muggings? These suspensions need to be twice as long.
If Thorton had done what he did to Orpik in ANY OTHER LEAGUE IN THE WORLD, it's entirely probable he wouldn't play again this season. Maybe not ever.
The league needs to grow a set when it comes to disciplining players. Neal's knee needs to be half a season. Thornton needs to be done for the year.
Of course, there are probably CBA problems with this.
I promise, you threaten their jobs, this **** will stop. We don't need neanderthal-level intimidation tactics.