Chicago is awash with Blackhawk fever. Now that they’ve reached the Stanley Cup Finals, only one question remains. Do they face Montreal or Philadelphia? But there’s something more that weighs on my mind, which is why this week’s free idea is for the NHL.
After one overtime, NHL games are decided by a shootout. Each team gets three chances to go one on one with the goalie. Most goals win. It is akin to ending a basketball game by playing Knockout. Or ending a football game with a field goal kicking contest.
The rule’s purpose is to prevent games from going on and on. It makes sense for the regular season, though I’d rather watch hockey. Teams are always rushing straight from their locker room to the next city for the next game, so games need to end in a timely manner.
But when it comes to the playoffs, I want to see the outcome determined by actual hockey. To decide a champion in a team sport by a series of one-on-one drills is a bastardization of the sport.
NHL, eliminate shootouts for the playoffs. Let them play hockey to crown their champion. No matter how long it takes. And if I’m wrong, and shootouts are already banned from the playoffs, keep up the good work.
Until next week,
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Jonathan Rozen
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