[Sparrow]

The NHL has toned down the violence level over the years to the like or dislike of some fans. Sometimes ugly things happen but overall it's not that bad considering the length of an NHL season with over 80 games + up to 28 games in the post season.
Also there are quite a few players who are in their mid 30s and even some in their 40s who still compete at a professional level, that's why I think it's not as bad as it seems.
European rinks are bigger, so games here are not as tough as in america.