So far, so good. There has been an inflated amount of penalties in preseason games, and the NHL says that won't change. Fans might as well to get used to hearing the whistle sound for another penalty. But ask anyone who has been around the NHL in the past couple of years and they'll tell you they have heard that one before. Try about three times before.
Players are cynical and skeptical.
Sundin, the Toronto captain, rolled his eyes after he was briefed about the latest effort to give him the room he'd love to have. 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.