With the trade deadline in the rearview mirror, the rumour mill has slowed down. However, that doesn’t mean that there isn’t buzz surrounding the league and its players. There have been rumours around players such as Carter Hart, but today we focus on the league itself. The rumours surround NHL over time. Rumours are subject to change, but here is the latest buzz.
NHL Overtime Could Be Expanded
Rumour: TSN has reported that there has been dialogue about expanding overtime
Could NHL salary cap make a significant jump in the near future? Overtime extended from 5 minutes to 7 minutes? Here’s a wrap up from the NHL general managers meetings. https://t.co/EMuJ71kTHf
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) March 15, 2023
There has been dialogue surrounding NHL over time. As it currently stands during the regular season, it is a five-minute period. If there is no winner the game will be decided in a shootout. The league has discussed expanding the overtime period to seven minutes. It will still be 3v3, but longer minutes to help determine the winner.
Is It Worth It?
From a consumer standpoint, the idea is a huge upgrade. Over time is one of the most exhilarating aspects of the NHL. Playoff overtime hockey is one of the most thrilling things to watch as a fan. But in the regular season with much more open ice, the entertainment value is an all-time high. For example; the game between the Toronto Maple Leafs and New York Rangers from a few seasons ago was electric.
NHL overtime being expanded isn’t just a random thought. The seven-minute overtime is not just a random thought. This is something that has been tested in the ECHL and has had positivity come from it. The first being an entertainment standpoint and having the audience engaged. For this to be put into action, a series of steps need to follow. The league will need to discuss it further with the NHLPA and go from there. With the goal to have games end in over time rather than a shootout, this is a good place to start.
Main Photo: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports
