The debate about shootouts will always rage. Points raised for and against will always have merit, because ultimately it is a matter of personal opinion. My personal opinion is the shootout sucks. It’s a gimmick. If they are taking away ties, scrap the three point system and use a Games Back system like the MLB and NBA.
Ever since Canada lost in 1994 to Sweden and in 1998 to the Czech Republic, shootouts have been a sore spot for most purist hockey fans. Some like the shootout, and that’s their choice. They are entitled to it. Myself, I think things like the shootout need to be abolished in a team game. After ten innings, do we see baseball stop the game and decide it with a homerun derby? As entertaining as some may find it, most would agree that it would be a gimmick and not the way to decide the game. Imagine if the World Series was decided in such a way? There would be an outcry.
On a related (somewhat) note, Bettman insists the revenues are fine this NHL season. In fact, he also insists Phoenix is viable in the market it’s in. Bettman is the perfect politician…not telling the truth when things are really tough.
So say no to shootouts. Say yes to the two point system for games. Hockey lasted for over 75 years in that system. Bring back the old names for the divisions. And just say NO to Bettman.
Have to disagree… I love the shootout. When I attend a game, I spend the first three periods + OT hoping for a SO. It’s time for tradition to be shot in the head. Bench clearing brawls used to be ‘tradition’… now they are long gone and we are better off for it.
Your world series point is moot because the SO is not used in the playoffs.
I was all for the shootout when they brought it in, but that was before I knew we’d be the only sports league with four ways of deciding a game. I actually still like it, but solely for W/L.
I liked your first thought – games back system, like MLB and NBA. It’s more exciting than some ridiculous, lengthy setup. But why not keep the shootout as the final means of decision?
Say no to Bettman indeed.