The fortnite-ification of hockey

Unfortunately, its not restricted to hockey or EA in general. The gaming industry sees the massive success Fortnite is and they all rush to copy it in order to hopefully copy some of the success.  If I had to guess, the devs don't even have much of a choice when it comes to incorporating Fortnite-like elements.  I agree with part of your point though, that garbage doesn't really appeal to hardcore hockey fans.  Turkey heads and wacky intros in what used to be virtual beer league.