RealGM

Honestly, the league was much better off when you couldn't score in OT, the game would end up in a tie and that was it.

IMO shootouts are all about individual talent, whoever could deke the best or whoever has the best goalie. Unfortunately the more talented team always wins, and shootouts have no real concept of heart, determination or teamwork.

When the Leafs went into a shootout against the Pens today, it was obvious who's gonna take it.

They should just end it at OT.

Thoughts?

I agree. It just isn't hockey. Hockey is a team sport, shootouts are just individual.
Also, they are anti-climactic like penalty kicks in soccer.

The Leafs are 4-4 on shootouts.

They are fun to watch and it's only during the regular season. So I enjoy them.

I don't mind the shootout itself, it can be very entertaining. I really don't want it to ever be implemented into the playoffs... I just find it has a lot of implications in the overall standings where a team is guaranteed 2 points every night, and that the losing team can still get 1. Just personal preference though, I don't have too many problems with the way the NHL is right now.