The KHL’s junior league, the JHL, is trying out a new overtime rule that could soon be seen in the NHL.
This rule stops players with the puck from crossing back over the red line into their own half during overtime. If they do it once, there’s a face-off in their defensive zone; if they do it again, they get a minor penalty.
The aim is to fix one of the biggest problems with three-on-three overtime in hockey. Over the years, OT has changed a lot. The NHL used to have four-on-four extra time but switched to three-on-three in 2015-16. This was meant to make games more exciting and fast-paced. But now, teams focus on keeping possession of the puck rather than attacking quickly.
New Overtime Strategy
Instead of rushing towards the opponent’s goal, teams often retreat into their own zone. Here, they either plan an attack or wait for better player matchups. If no good play appears, they’re happy just holding onto the puck.
Fans might think this new rule will bring back thrilling action to overtime periods.
Sadly, this slow and careful strategy isn’t what people expected when three-on-three OT was introduced. It replaced fast-paced action with cautious play. No one knows yet if this new JHL rule will solve that problem.
But if it works well in the JHL, it’d be smart for the NHL to consider using it too.
What do you think? Would this make hockey more fun to watch?
