I feel like we have a very broad understanding of the word "trick" here. Nathaniel doesn't like it, but the way refs call penalties and try to roughly even up calls every game they have created a system where you have to play along the line and a lot of times over it, especially in the playoffs. If you play dirty you might get the first penalty, but they refs are going to try their best to even up, and you might even get a retaliation slash or cross check immediately. If you don't play at the edge, then the opposition is going to take less wear and tear over the course of a series. You want them dreading playing you. Not wanting to come near the crease because they know they will be getting a cross check on their spine. Be in their head when they aren't on the ice, so they can't think about how to meat you. Make them think about the upcoming game, and maybe even lose some sleep over knowing what's coming.