In a recent call for questions from NHL fans, subscribers of The Athletic had plenty to say. One hot topic that came up frequently was the ongoing Mitch Marner saga in Toronto. However, that discussion will be saved for another time. One of the other prevalent themes that emerged was the perception that the NHL regular season can feel like a tedious 82-game slog for many fan bases.
This sentiment is not unique to hockey, as other leagues like the NBA have also grappled with the challenge of maintaining fan interest throughout a long regular season. The NBA recently introduced changes like an in-season tournament and play-ins to add more excitement and significance to the season.
The question of how to make the NHL regular season more engaging is certainly one worth exploring, perhaps now more than ever.
One suggestion that has been floated around is to scrap the division-heavy playoff format. Some believe that altering the point system to reward teams for winning in regulation could create more separation in the standings and add excitement for fans. A three-point system could also help devalue shootouts, which many fans, players, and coaches have grown tired of.
Another factor that contributes to the perceived lack of excitement in the regular season is the predictability of the playoff picture. Many teams already seem like locks for the playoffs, while others are unlikely to even be in the race. This lack of variability can make the season feel long and drawn out for fans.
Looking at the Western Conference, teams like Edmonton, Dallas, Colorado, and Vegas are seen as strong contenders for playoff spots. While some surprises could happen, it’s hard to envision a major shake-up in the standings based on the rosters heading into training camps.
For many NHL fan bases, the regular season can feel like a prolonged wait for the playoffs. The lack of unpredictability and the sense of inevitability in the standings can make the season feel like an extended preseason.
As we look ahead to the upcoming season, it will be interesting to see if any changes are made to address these concerns and make the NHL regular season more engaging for fans. Perhaps April will bring some surprises and shake-ups in the standings, but for now, many fans are left waiting for the excitement of playoff hockey.
