The NHL has looked to increase scoring over the past several years and while I've seen a lot of 2-1 hockey games that were better than a 7-5 barn burner with all the structure of a Timbits practice I think the logical step of slimming down goalie equipment is the right move.
Shrinking the nets seems far to drastic a step and as most argue would taint the tradition and records of the past. Calling too many penalties to drum up opportunities slows things down too much and is incredibly annoying therefore the next best thing is to limit the size advantage of those blocking it. I do agree that protecting these guys is a primary concern but the size of the equipment has gone from protection to full on obstruction. Some bean polls like Ryan Miller pack on more armor than a bomb squad member and so the time has come to change this.
Look at the NHL in the 80's when thanks to teams like the Oilers goal scoring was at a premium. The men in the next were much smaller than today, like me standing beside Shaq. For a quick comparison take a look at what Patrick Roy wore in his rookie year of 1986 vs. what he had on in his final years in Colorado. Granted the rest of the league was in the same boat but it goes to show the vast difference in a relatively short time.
The modern goalie is vastly superior is speed and agility to most who played the position years ago and the athletic ability the have to have to keep the puck out is incredible. If you watch old footage of goals going in during the late 70's and 80's kids would be cut from Junior B teams for letting those shots in today. With this improved play the advantage of huge equipment is something that needed to be addressed.
That said players have also benefited from new technology and modern sticks and lighter equipment has made the game faster than ever as well has the shots more booming and lethal. The necessary safety precautions being taken this is a win win. As Sabres GM Tim Murray said the NHLPA and the league are on the same page. I think this is a move that will improve the game for all, though perhaps not most save percentages...
