NHL general managers approve 3-on-3 OT; coach’s challenge
LAS VEGAS — And so much for that 4-on-4 overtime. The NHL general managers have approved pushing it down to 3-on-3.
There were questions after the general managers meetings in March as to what format the league would use for overtime. The American Hockey League went to seven minutes of overtime this year – 4-on-4 until the first whistle after the three minute mark and then 3-on-3. According to McKenzie the NHLPA did not want the AHL format. Apparently the choice was no change or three-on-three for five minutes.
This keeps the NHL’s favorite post-2005 lockout gimmick – the shootout, which basically led to the ultimate demise of the Los Angeles Kings last season. Alas for those purists who despise the shootout (cough, me) the chance for games to not be decided by a skills competition is done, pending Board of Governors approval of course.
But the hope is for this is that the 3-on-3 limits shootouts so the games are decided more in overtime. Basically the NHL is trying to make OT more exciting and keep the shootouts — which was made to rope in more fans.
As for the coach’s challenge, they will come on offsides goals and goaltender interference plays. This follows the NHL competition committee’s recommendation.
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Josh Cooper is an editor for Puck Daddy on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter! Follow @joshuacooper
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