Overall, the game of hockey is in a good place. Fans are relatively happy, players are relatively happy, and the environment in stadiums — particularly Devils Den — is thriving. That doesn't mean we can't make some suggestions that would make the game and the experience of hockey better.
There's always room for improvement, and for the NHL, that could come with some rule changes. There are many, many rule changes the NHL could implement. Perhaps a new overtime format or different three-on-three rules. Is a shot clock in the realm of possibility?
While there are numerous rule changes, the league could, should, and would employ Pucks and Pitchforks takes a look below at our top five. If these went into effect this season, the NHL would be immensely better as a sport and an organization.
5. Get rid of the salary cap
The NHL salary cap is the total amount of money that NHL teams are allowed to pay their players. It is a "hard" cap, meaning there are no exemptions. It was first introduced in 2005-06 and was a main crux of the full-season lockout. The cap is to keep teams in larger markets — with more revenue — from signing all of the top players and extending their advantage over smaller-market franchises. The cap for the upcoming season is $88 million. But should the NHL really utilize this? The players work hard, and there is money in the league. Why not compensate the players for how hard they work and play?
4. Simplify the number of penalty types
Let's see; there are minor, bench minor, major, misconduct, game misconduct, gross misconduct, game ejections, match penalties, and penalty shots. Some of these are always awarded when certain penalties occur; take major and game misconduct, for example. While some have the exact same punishment as others, with game misconduct and gross misconduct both involving a player getting sent back to the locker room. Maybe simplifying things is what the league needs.