"Vancouver Canuck Max Lapierre, frequently criticized in his National Hockey League career for hitting and running, is increasingly backing up his abrasive play with his fists.

Lapierre's bout with Cal Clutterbuck during Thursday's 5-2 win against the Minnesota Wild was the Canuck's seventh fighting major this season and fourth since Vancouver coach Alain Vigneault said after a New Year's Eve loss in Los Angeles that he needed more of a physical presence from role players.

Prior to this season, Lapierre had 12 fights in five years.

"I don't think I'm there to fight every game," he said. "It's two different things to talk and then answer the bell for a big hit. Last night, I gave a hit and it seemed like [Clutterbuck] didn't like it. And if he asks me after a big hit, I've got to go, kind of.

"The main thing is to bring some energy and be physical. We see it, especially in the playoffs, it brings a lot of momentum to the team. I take pride in that style of play and will keep working on it every game."

The 26-year-old said he has worked for about five summers with a boxing trainer in Montreal.

"I think it's all about confidence," Lapierre said. "You go in there once in awhile and fight, and things get better and better. When you know what to expect, it's easier to drop the gloves.""