It's no secret that over the past few years, the NHL has attempted to move away from the physicality that sets it apart from other leagues, with some speculating that fighting could one day be gone from the NHL entirely.
Brian Burke, the former GM of the Pittsburgh Penguins has taken major exception to this insinuation, and issued a threat (whether genuine or not) to Gary Bettman and the NHLPA over this.
Given how old school Burke is, it's very understandable that he wouldn't want to see the end of fighting, as it is a crucial part of the game, especially when it comes to policing poor sportsmanship and cheap shots on the ice.
While the fighting in the NHL has certainly gone down a drastic amount in recent years, it's still a key part of the game, with names like Ryan Reaves, Milan Lucic and others still making a living off their physical presence.
Ultimately, several junior leagues have already banned fighting, but it's unlikely that it will make it's way to the professional level anytime soon, but if it does, it appears Bettman may have a fight on his hands.
