In light of the various suspensions and fines that have been handed out by Brendan Shanahan, players are beginning to realize that they need to adapt.

Chicago’s recently-suspended Daniel Carcillo said, “Now, you have to process every hit that you’re about to make. It’s really, really hard. But if you don’t want to sit out games and get fined, you have to start doing it.”

As to why it’s particularly difficult, Carcillo explains that “this game happens quick, and you have to react. Once you start thinking, it hinders your play.”

Sportsnet.ca’s Mark Spector articulates that energy players, such as Carcillo, will never be able to change. “It’s in their DNA. It’s what got them to this level. Even if they want to change, you have to wonder if there is enough player left, without the game changing him.” 

The NHL suspended Carcillo for his illegal hit on Edmonton Oilers defenseman, Tom Gilbert during Monday night's game. The two players were chasing a dumped puck, and Carcillo leveled Gilbert into the boards.

Both players were injured on the play, and despite already missing time because of a knee injury, Carcillo has been suspended for seven games by Shanahan. 

The shame of the reckless play by Carcillo is that he was seeing some considerable time playing with superstar forwards, Jonathan Towes and Patrick Kane.