Leave it the same for THREE overtime periods. 5v5, no changes.
If, after three OT periods it is still tied, end the game as a draw, skip TWO days (at least), then start the game all over again. The tied game essentially doesn't exist.
This, for player safety. Yes, these pros are extremely fit, but playing SIX periods of NHL-level hockey takes a toll on even the most fit athlete.
This solution allows for the excitement of a multiple-overtime game, but protects the health of the players involved should the outcome not be decided in 120 minutes of intense hockey. It's a rare occurance anyway, and the result would be decided after a reasonable time for players to recover.
I remember well, watching these rare long OT games. People talk about them forever! They are very rare and great for the game! What other sport can you watch essentially two game in one. Fantastic.
Typical knee-jerk reaction from the media. Leave it as is. Maybe by the 2nd or 3rd OT, as a coach you have to change your tactics. If you don't feel you have the depth to survive this series, then start pinching, play aggressive and try to end the game ASAP. If it fails and an odd-man rush goes the other way, you live with that and hope your goalie bails you out. For a 4OT game there actually weren't a lot of high-quality chances.
Location: MEDICINE HAT MEDICINE PUSHERS, AB Joined: 09.30.2014
May 19 @ 1:37 PM ET
no. in fact all regular season games should be played indefinitely until there is a winner. (frank) ties, (frank) shootouts, and (frank) 3 on 3 coin flip shinny
If there is no winner after the second OT, each team takes turns being replaced by bears. Whoever scores more against the bears or whichever team isn't completely killed wins.
The game of hockey, at least at the official level, is intended to play 5v5. When you have 4v4 the "dynamic" of the game changes. It is possible to have teams that are not great 5v5 but very good 4v4 and vice-versa. It changes even more so 3v3. When you change the dynamic of the game like this it makes it easier for an undeserving team to win the game.
I am also in favor of getting rid of 3v3 in the regular season and bringing back ties.
