NHL general managers just concluded three days worth of meetings this past week, where rules and adjustments to the League were discussed. Reports indicate that there were no major changes proposed, but some rule tweaks may find their way into the NHL for the 2024-25 season.
“We talked about a lot of little tweaks that we can focus on to maybe make things a little bit smoother, but nothing that I would categorize as problems,” Bettman told NHL.com.”I think we’re in a good place, and we’re looking forward to the stretch drive and beginning the playoffs.”
Even minor tweaks need to be agreed on with the players though the NHLPA. So, that will be the next course of action.
Let’s examine more closely.
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5 rule changes agreed on at NHL GMs meetings
Delay of game coach’s challenge
Under this proposed rule change, coaches would be allowed to challenge a delay of game penalty for a puck out of play. The coach has the option to challenge if the puck was deflected off of a player, stick or boards, to determine with certainty that the puck left the area of play without deflection. This makes the calls more definitive, rather than trusting the eyes of the official for the call.
High-sticking minor coach’s challenge
Similar to the first proposed change, coaches would have the ability to challenge a high-sticking minor. This would better determine if the player was hit by his own stick, the stick of his teammate or the puck, for example, rather than relying exclusively on the eyes of the official.
Line change after net dislodged
This suggested rule is a tweak to Rule 63.8, stating that the team which dislodges the net, accidental or intentional, cannot make a line change at the stoppage of play.
Emergency goalie requirements, warmup
The general managers determined that an improved course of action regarding emergency backup goaltenders (EBUG) should be put in place. In other words, EBUGs should be professional-level goalies.
In addition, the GM’s agree that goaltenders entering a game to replace an injured goaltender should be given a 45-to-60 second warmup.
Other minor rule changes
Face-offs: Following an icing, the offensive center should also receive a warning before being removed from the draw.
Player discipline: GMs are now welcome to visit the NHL Player Safety Room throughout the season, similar to the Situation Room.
Sitting on boards: Players sitting on the boards during play will receive a warning of the violation, then receive a bench minor for the next infraction.
The following rules are to be maintained on the current interpretation, per the general managers
- The use of long-term injured reserve
- Major penalties for boarding
- Reverse hits
- Possession and control on an offsides
- Video review of high-sticked pucks (Goals)