NHL Teams Vote For Major Change With The Draft

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Austin Sabourin
October 25, 2023 (10:20 PM)

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In recent developments, the NHL has been contemplating a major shift in its draft process, with talks of 'decentralizing' the event.

This would mean teams would stay at their home bases while prospects attend the draft, similar to the NFL and NBA formats.

Reports from insiders, including Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet, now reveal that the majority of NHL teams have voted in favor of this decentralization.

Teams had until the end of business on Tuesday to voice their positions on the proposed decentralized draft format. In response, the league issued a memo indicating that there is majority support for the change.

However, it's still uncertain whether this shift will happen in 2024, as there are various logistical details to iron out.

Elliotte Friedman's "32 Thoughts" column elaborated on the implications of decentralization.

This would mean that team front offices would stay at their headquarters while drafted players would gather at a central location and be greeted by the commissioner, similar to the NFL format.

Friedman expressed his disappointment with this change, as he believes having everyone together adds to the excitement.

The move towards decentralization has generated opposition due to issues like the draft's timing and associated costs. Some teams have voiced concerns about revealing their plans inadvertently due to close proximity at the draft tables.

While fans and insiders may have one more chance to experience the current format, Friedman predicts that the new format will likely take effect in the summer of 2025. This potential change leaves many wondering how it will impact the draft's dynamics and the overall fan experience.