Exploring the Lengthy NHL Preseason: A Call for Change

There has been a growing consensus among fans and analysts alike about the excessive length of the NHL preseason. Many believe it is overly drawn out and may need significant adjustments. The current structure has led to debates on how it impacts team performance and player readiness.

Insights from NHL Experts on Preseason Adjustments

According to notable figures in the hockey community, such as TSN Hockey Insider Pierre LeBrun, along with Elliotte Friedman from Sportsnet and Dave Pagnotta of the Fourth Period, there are discussions underway regarding a reduction in the number of preseason games. This initiative stems from a desire to enhance competitive balance and player safety.

Enhancing Competitive Balance in NHL Preseason Rosters

During the recent Board of Governors meeting, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman and the Governors reached a consensus to potentially shorten the preseason while increasing the regular season by two games. This strategic move aims to address revenue concerns while also ensuring that players are adequately prepared for the real competitions ahead.

From a financial perspective, this adjustment makes sense, as the league seeks to compensate for lost revenue during the shortened preseason. However, any changes will first require the ratification of a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

It’s important to note that during the NHL preseason, team owners retain 100% of the revenue generated, unlike during the regular season where profits are shared with players based on the 50/50 revenue split outlined in the CBA.

This financial incentive underscores the league’s motivation to modify the current format. Furthermore, as the NHL looks ahead to the possibility of expanding to 36 teams, a recalibration of the preseason schedule will be necessary to accommodate the increased number of divisional games.

Addressing the Injury Concerns in Preseason Play

However, the conversation around reducing preseason games to mitigate injuries presents a complex challenge. Many injuries are merely unfortunate accidents, such as the one involving Drew Doughty during the regular season, or incidents like Macklin Celebrini losing his balance and colliding with the boards.

Understanding Injury Dynamics in NHL Preseason

Injuries can occur at any time, regardless of the game type. For instance, the knee-to-knee collision between Cedric Pare of the Toronto Maple Leafs and Patrik Laine from the Montreal Canadiens highlights how even minor changes in player movement can lead to significant injuries. Laine himself acknowledged that a different approach could have potentially prevented the incident.

Even with a reduced number of games, injuries such as knee-on-knee collisions can still happen. The crux of the issue lies in the intent behind the play; deliberate actions to harm another player are a different matter altogether compared to accidental injuries that occur during the heat of the game.

Recent Incidents Illustrate the Need for Preseason Reform

Take, for instance, the recent altercation between the Montreal Canadiens and Ottawa Senators. Following a controversial hit from Ridly Greig on Kirby Dach, Arber Xhekaj retaliated with an aggressive play on Tim Stutzle, resulting in Stutzle leaving the game. Although Stutzle was hit in the face, the level of aggression displayed raises questions about the nature of play acceptable during the preseason.

Navigating Salary Cap and CBA Discussions in the NHL

Should the NHL move forward with reducing preseason games, there is a concern that injuries could spike during training camps, similar to the situation with Artemi Panarin of the New York Rangers, who struggled to complete two preseason games due to injury.

This situation mirrors trends seen in the NFL, where players often face injuries due to the lack of preparation when entering game action too quickly. Whether it is a hamstring or a quad injury, the risks are considerable when players are not adequately conditioned.

Injury Updates: NHL Teams to Watch This Season

The first few weeks of the NFL season can be likened to an extended preseason, highlighting the importance of getting players in shape before competitive play starts. In hockey, the balance between preseason preparation and game readiness is crucial. The absence of a preseason during the COVID-shortened season and the 2012-13 lockout proved successful, as players arrived in training camps fit and ready to compete.

Ultimately, the NHL must find the right balance regarding the number of preseason games. What is an optimal count? Many suggest four games may be ideal, as most veteran players prefer to participate in just three. Goalies typically seek at least one full game to prepare before the stakes rise.

It appears we are moving towards a reduction in the NHL preseason, aiming for a minimum of four games. This adjustment would allow for an increase in the number of regular season games, benefiting both teams and fans alike.