I think it is tough to get rid of all of that. I am sure it will be back to normal. Buffalo coach Lindy Ruff says players are adaptable and the second the referees back off, watch out. We'll see if it sticks this year. Andy Van Hellemond vows that his officiating policy will stick.
Consistency is the issue.
What is a penalty in October will be a penalty in November and in March and into the Stanley Cup playoffs. But once March comes, the game changes. Points take on a different meaning. There is less room on the ice and once the Stanley Cup tournament opens, jungle law rules the ice. And history has shown that the best intentions don't stand the test of time.