NHL players voice concerns over shootout format, suggest changes
In the ongoing dialogue about the most contentious aspects of the NHL, the shootout mechanism is often a flashpoint among fans and players alike.
It appears that even within the league, there's a growing consensus that it might be time for a change. During a candid conversation at the European Media Tour, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman engaged with players about potential tweaks they'd advocate for in the league. The responses, particularly from goaltenders Sam Ersson and Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, as well as forward Tomas Hertl, centered on a significant point: the elimination of the shootout.
Read Elliotte Friedman's full report here.
The shootout, introduced to bring an exciting end to tied games, faces criticism for reducing a team-oriented sport to individual prowess. This sentiment was echoed by David Pastrnak who, while not against the shootout entirely, suggested that goals scored during these face-offs should count towards a player's individual statistics. His perspective introduces a unique angle on how players value these moments in their professional achievements.
Many hockey traditionalists argue that shootouts do not reflect the true spirit of the sport. This view is especially prevalent among goaltenders, who stand alone in the spotlight during these decisive moments, bearing the brunt of the outcome. Their position in this debate is particularly insightful given their direct engagement with the process and its impact on game results.
Another poignant critique of the shootout comes from its absence in playoff games, highlighting a general acknowledgment of its inadequacy in deciding critically important matches. The rationale behind maintaining the shootout often circles back to television schedules and the need for games to conclude within a set timeframe. However, some believe that modifying overtime rules could similarly satisfy broadcast demands without compromising the game's integrity.
As the current Collective Bargaining Agreement nears its expiration with the 2025-26 season on the horizon, discussions are anticipated to intensify. With players increasingly vocal about their dissatisfaction, changes to how games are concluded in the NHL could very well be a significant topic of negotiation.
This growing dissent among players could catalyze a shift in how games are decided, potentially ushering in a new era for the NHL where the essence of hockey, as a team sport, is preserved even in its concluding moments.
| POLL | ||
What is your opinion on the NHL's decision to maintain or eliminate shootouts? | ||
| Keep the shootout | 11 | 22 % |
| Get rid of it | 39 | 78 % |
| List of polls | ||
