Freestylah, the NHL has the philosophy that the fighting helps discourage cheap stick work which is more likely to result in serious injury. Fatman is right, the league since the late 80s is nothing like it once was.

1979-Nick Fotiu vs. Steve Durbano It really heats up about two and a half minutes in.

Boston vs Quebec in 1984
The Battle of Quebec-Canadians vs Nordiques April 20, 1984

Stevens hit with his shoulder but would extend his elbow after the contact making the hits look dirtier than they really were.