You're right on all fronts Steve! The ACC still sells out for every game and probably will for the next 100 years. And the OTPP owns 66% of the MLSE. With them only caring about ROI (I think you're spot on), the chances of a Championship shot will be a long time coming, if ever. Maybe the Leafs needs to be bought out by one of those Russian/Arabic billionnaires who'll throw some money at the team. Better yet.......(are you listening Mr. Bettman) ...give us a franchise in Hamilton! The GTA with roughly a population of 6 million (if not more) can surely support an additional NHL franchise. We know of course this won't happen........it's all about protecting the status quo.
I've heard it is the Maple Leaf organization that is preventing expansion to Hamilton
BTW, speaking of fights in hockey, I do remember several years ago a player from the Canucks (IIRC) that hit another player with his stick and not only created great bodily harm but also ended the career of this player. A criminal and civil lawsuit followed IIRC
However as you say, the fights are part of the sport. It's the cheap shots that destroy the game and can cause severe physical trauma.
Lastly, I also remember way back in the 50's and 60's watching the game where the goalies never wore face masks. Too many times I remember Eddie Bower, Terry Sawchuck, Jacques Plante, Gump Worsely etc being hit in the faces by a blistering slap shot and sustaining major lacerations. They were taken off the ice and the game delayed until they were sewn up and sent back onto the ice. I remeber the pools of bloood around the goal creas only to be cleaned by the Zamboni
IIRC it was Jacques Plante who said enough is enough and was the first to wear a face mask