The NHL General Managers have come to a final decision regarding video review on goaltender interference. They have decided that all Goaltender interference calls will be made by Toronto. This topic came up during this year’s NHL GM’s meeting in Florida and the change was approved. Some approval are needed before this is put into effect.
The GMs Meeting has wrapped up. Decisions on goaltender interference reviews are moving to Toronto video room, with a retired referee there to assist. Still some approvals needed.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) March 21, 2018
Goaltender Interference to be Reviewed in Toronto Only
This has been a big issue this season for coaches and players with officials. With this being approved change is hopeful. One change includes adding a retired NHL referee in the situation room in Toronto. Having a retired official present will hopefully add more perspective than having people who haven’t had on-ice experience make the calls.
What This Means for the Future
The hope is that when these calls go to Toronto that they will resolve these in a timely manner. This also will help coaches when they challenge for a goaltender interference call. Because it will no longer be in the hands of the referees.
How Will this Affect the Playoffs if Approved
If this call is approved for the playoffs this would be a huge boost for the NHL. As we know the playoffs are when the games really count and being sure that the goal is good is crucial. Coaches are going to want to be 100% sure that every call in the playoffs is called correctly. Hopefully going forward this will benefit the NHL and it will be easier and quicker for players, coaches, and referees to decipher these calls.
Other Topics brought up at the GM Meetings include the Seattle expansion and draft and a possible change to the playoff format. The Seattle expansion draft is set to follow the same parameters as were afforded the Vegas Golden Knights for their draft.
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