RealGM

Is it time for the NHL to revisit how it awards teams points during the regular season?

Personally, I'm sick of seeing teams that make it overtime awarded a point. What is the big accomplishment, that you tied a team and then lost in overtime/shootout.

I would rather they adopt the structure like the other leagues of Games Back and the standings only reflect Wins/Losses.

By eliminating the point-for-ties it might also force teams to start playing better in regulation to get the win.

I would give 3 points for a win in regulation to avoid teams playing for the tie and one point if you win in overtime or the shootout.

darth_federer wrote:I would give 3 points for a win in regulation to avoid teams playing for the tie and one point if you win in overtime or the shootout.

That really doesn't increase the incentive to win games overall. Because teams will still deploy the hold them to the tie and i'll get a point. Unless you're suggesting no points for making it to overtime.

Personally, I'd just eliminate the points all together as I mentioned as it simplifies the standings too.

Very simple.. adopt Soccer point system.

Win = 3 points
Tie = 1 point
Loss = 0 points

Get rid of the shootout. You play one overtime period during the season and overtime keeps going in the playoffs until a winner is decided.

It still gives team an incentive to try and win, whether during regulation or over time. The 2 extra points for a win will encourage playing to win rather than just taking the tie and 1 point.

As bad as the point system works, it's not an issue for the NHL these days. Fans love how playoff races come down to the wire every year. Almost every team is in it to the end. And it's to the point where fans don't even know what they're cheering for......to sneak into the playoffs. Nothing to do with winning a championship. Fans want to get great hockey during a playoff series and owners want playoff revenue. Excitement all around for being in a playoff hunt.

They should make it:
with SO
regulation Win/Loss: 2 points/0 points
Overtime Win/Loss: 1 points/0 points
SO Win/Loss: 0.5 points/0 points

Without shootout
Regulation Win/Loss: 2 points/0 points
Overtime Win/Loss: 1 points/0 points
Tie: 0.5 points each

How about 80pts for an opening season win against the Habs at the ACC.