So as many of you know, the NHL is one of few American sports that uses a point system to determine the standings. Their current point system, in my opinion, is insufficient. There is potential for a team to make the playoffs even if there is a team with a better record or winning percentage. In many sports like the NBA, MLB and NFL, record is all that counts. Regardless of whether the game demands to be extended beyond the regular time period or adding extra frames to complete the game, it is either a win or lose. It is clear cut; there is no such category for an overtime win or loss.
There are many different point systems that the NHL should consider if they are hard set on keeping the point system. The NHL’s current point system doesn’t make sense. Teams get two points for a win or overtime win, and receive one point for an overtime loss. It seems silly to dish out 2 points for a regulation win and then dish out 3 for one that goes into overtime. The NHL is essentially cheating the system by awarding that one point for losing in extra time. Also, NHL sends a message that a team got essentially an equal win serving two points for a regulation win and an overtime win. It seems like common sense that it is better to win in regulation as opposed to having to take extra time to beat the same team.
I am of the opinion that the NHL should consider the three-point system. Three points for a regulation win, two for an overtime win and one for an overtime loss. When you total the points awarded each game, they equal three. This system is much more efficient and there will be a less likely chance of a team not worthy of making the playoffs with the three-point system versus the two-point one.
As of 3pm pacific, Saturday February 12, 2011 the standings of the Eastern Conference and Western Conference are as follows.
Eastern Conference Standings with 3-point system
Western Conference Standings with 3-point system
As you can see, there are some minor changes to who would be in the playoffs when using the 3-point sytem. In the Eastern Conference, Boston moves up to 2nd place while Tampa Bay drops to third and Carolina and Atlanta switch spots. In the Western Conference, Dallas and San Jose switch positions, Phoenix moves up and Los Angeles makes the playoffs as Anaheim and Nashville drop a spot. Calgary is the only team that free falls and drops from 8th, in the playoffs, to 11th, hitting the golf course early in the year.
As you analyze the standings the three-point system is much better at awarding the better teams with better playoff positions. The NHL just needs to open its eyes and see the superiority of the three-point system.