Canucks’ Max Lapierre making major statement in backing up his physical play

CALGARY — Vancouver Canuck Max Lapierre, frequently criticized in his National Hockey League career for hitting and running, is increasingly backing up his abrasive play with his fists.  Lapierre's bout with Cal Clutterbuck during Thursday's 5-2 win against the Minnesota Wild was the Canuck's seventh fighting major this season and fourth since Vancouver coach Alain Vigneault said after a New Year's Eve loss in Los Angeles that he needed more of a physical presence from role players. http://www.vancouversun.com/health/Canucks+Lapierre+making+major+statement+backing+physical+play/6136159/story.html#ixzz1m5k61NOS

Shacks' Take:  I'm guessing Lapierre heard all the criticism that was heaped upon him during the Stanley Cup finals last year.  Max is an A-one, first class pest, which is great, every team needs at least one, but there's nothing worse in hockey than a cheap shot artist that doesn't stand up for himself.  I've always believed it's okay to play a little dirty as long as you answer the bell when you're called out for these tactics. If you're man enough to stick someone be man enough to answer for your actions.  
In the days before the instigator rule there were far less pests because if you hacked someone you had to answer for your actions.  Now rats can do what they want and run the other way.  These players have no respect within the league and can be divisive within the dressing room because other players get tired of having to come to their defense.  Lapierre's fighting may seem like a small thing but within the dressing room it's bigger than you might think.