NHL Considering New 3-on-3 OT Format
The NHL’s overtime system can be exciting, but it also can break your brain when you see a player voluntarily leave the attacking zone to regroup. It happens frequently, and while the maneuver makes more sense as you break it down, it betrays the spirit of 3-on-3 OT.
During the NHL’s latest GM Meetings, executives discussed possible tweaks to 3-on-3 OT rules that might limit or eliminate that strange (but tactically sensible) practice.
One suggestion: echo the NBA’s half-court violation rules by not allowing a skater to cross back behind the red line or even the blue line after they enter the offensive zone.
Another NBA-like suggestion could involve introducing a “shot clock.”
Discussions are ongoing and will be tabled to March GM meeting.