NHL Rule Changes

[RichardGraham]

Hi Folks,

New rule changes add a ``shootout'' to decide tie games, the removal of the center red line to allow longer passes and a reduction in the size of pads that goaltenders are allowed to wear.

I think it's fascinating that the NHL is utilizing some of inline hockey's long-standing rules to make their game better, but I wonder if the shootout eliminates the 4-on-4 overtime period (which I really liked), or if it's an addition to it. Does anyone know?

Sincerely,

Richard Graham
Editor
Inline Hockey Central

[sactosaxons]

Hi Richard! As I understand it, the shootout occurs AFTER the 5 minute overtime if the game's still tied. I too love the 4-on-4 OT and am glad they didn't mess with that. But I've never much cared for tie games; the shootout sure takes care of that in a most exciting way - thanks roller hockey!!!

[JohnHockey1798]

I agree with a shootout and getting rid of the two line pass. I also like the emphisis of calling cluthing and grabing. The pad size for goaltenders should not make a difference. The only rule I think is stupid is that goaltenders are limited were they can play the puck. They have a trapazoid behind the goal where they can play the puck when it crosses the goal line. Some of the other rules will make things interesting like not allowing a team that iced the puck to make a line change.

John

Toga!! Toga!!

[Brooklynite10]

I think the goalies equipment size will make a huge difference. The NHL snipers are going to make sure of it. As far as the goalie being limited to play the puck, I don't think they made that change. They talked about early in the negotiations but passed on the idea.

[RichardGraham]

Hi Justin,

I think that they did go ahead with that goalie rule; correct me if I'm wrong. I'm just relieved that the overtime period wasn't replaced with a shootout.

Are you ready for some ice hockey?!

Sincerely,

Richard Graham
Editor
Inline Hockey Central

[sactosaxons]

ARE WE READY FOR SOME ICE HOCKEY???? HELL YEA!!!!!!
We've been ready for what, over a year now???
Lace 'em up and drop the puck already!!!!!

[Brooklynite10]

More than ready !!! Just a little bumbed about ticket prices. I expected a nice price drop so that I could go to a bunch of games this year but I don't think that will be the case in NJ,NY and Philly; all the places I go to see games. I will only go to a game if I am sitting in above average seats otherwise I rather just watch it at home or at a bar. Above average ticket prices are astronomical these days.

I heard that they didn't change that rule from a friend but I wasn't 0 sure. Thanks for setting it straight.

[RichardGraham]

Hi wolves10,

The Los Angeles Kings are giving away some free tickets for a pre-season game against their crosstown rivals, the Mighty Clucks. If I'm near Staples Center when they become available, I might pick one or two up. I will be VERY interested to see my first NHL game since the lockout, what with the possible fan reaction and the new rules.

Sincerely,

Richard Graham
Editor
Inline Hockey Central

[sactosaxons]

A reliable source of mine says San Jose Sharks tix are to drop to around 1999/2000 season prices - not bad; every bit helps!

[WMBG_GM]

This is where DirectTV rocks! Every game until playoff rnd 2.

Plus the added bonus is that we get to see all the good "jack n the box" ads! :) (No Jn'B on the East Coast)

Ben Loyall