Although the number of post-overtime shootouts in the NHL has dropped significantly since the introduction of 3-on-3 overtime a decade ago, the controversial tie-breaking penalty-shot contest has recently devolved into a laughable joke. Increasingly, players approach the net at a near snail’s pace—sometimes weaving tentatively during their approach, sometimes not. By the time they finally reach the crease area, they’re moving just enough to be considered in motion—apparently a rulebook requirement. Just before unleashing a quick snapshot to the lower half of the net, a brief burst of rapid-fire stickhandling ensues, designed to further freeze the already motionless netminder. Regardless of the outcome—goal or save—the world’s fastest game suddenly becomes the slowest.
Click here for a brief video example.
Somebody ought to fix this mess—quickly!
Of course, the best fix would be to get rid of the shootout altogether. Failing that, a five-second countdown clock—activated when the shooter crosses the blue line—would undoubtedly restore the event’s original intent.
More 3-on-3 overtime is another possible solution. But that, too, is slowly morphing into a snooze-fest, as cautious, jittery coaches prefer a rope-a-dope approach—repeatedly retreating from the offensive zone to the safety of neutral ice despite maintaining puck possession. While another re-entry usually follows, yet another retreat is never far behind. No longer do they play to win—they play not to lose.
Apparently, the only thing still moving quickly in the NHL is ticket prices.
