[Stentor]

2.No helmets ( all boarding checks from behind,even a push,equals automatic penalty)

Won't stop headlong slides into the boards from accidental trips. I know what you're after. I went to Flyers games in the 60's when the only guys who wore helmets were named Jean Guy something or other.

[Luddite Patent Counsel]

The push for helemts began when Bill Masterton of the Minnesota North Stars died after he fell and struck the back of his head on the ice during a home game with the Oakland Seals in 1968. Helmets finally became mandatory in 1979, but the NHL had its biggest surge in popularity in the 80's, so I don't think that brain crates have much to do with the present "troubles".

Bonus trivia: Andy Brown of the Penguins was the last goalie to play without a mask, against the Atlanta Flames in 1974.