Quote:Written Option 2: If you could change one rule in hockey, of any league, which rule would you change, how would you change it, and why that particular rule?

If I could tweak one rule in hockey, I'd focus on the NHL's overtime format. Currently, NHL overtime consists of a sudden-death period lasting five minutes, played with fewer skaters (3-on-3) to open up space and encourage scoring opportunities. However, if no team scores during this period, the game proceeds to a shootout, where teams take turns sending out players in one-on-one attempts against the opposing goalie.

My proposed change would be to extend the overtime period to ten minutes and eliminate the shootout entirely during the regular season. This adjustment aims to prioritize team play and reduce the outcome's reliance on individual skill. With a longer overtime, there's more time for the game to reach a natural conclusion, potentially leading to more decisive outcomes without resorting to the shootout's somewhat arbitrary nature.

Maintaining the excitement of 3-on-3 play while extending the duration allows for a fairer assessment of teams' abilities and encourages more strategic, dynamic gameplay. Additionally, eliminating the shootout in favor of extended overtime preserves the integrity of the sport by emphasizing team effort over individual prowess. Overall, this change aims to enhance the thrill of overtime hockey while ensuring a fairer resolution to closely contested games.