When we talk about the modern-era for the NHL, Baby Boomers and Gen-Xers are likely referring to the post-expansion era but for Millennials, the modern era really refers to 2005 and beyond.
Since the lockout that cost the NHL the entire 2004-05 season, the league has changed. New rules came into effect, the standard play changed and the all around speed and talent the game is played with has changed things significantly.
The talent level we see in today’s game is significantly higher than was present at the turn of the century. Gone are unimpressive goons like Colton Orr, John Scott and Riley Cote while players like Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, Nikita Kucherov and Mitch Marner thrive because of a new style that allows raw talent to flourish.