NHL Considering Pair of Rule Changes in Light of Recent Events

According to Elliotte Friedman via his latest 32 Thoughts Podcast, the NHL is considering two separate rule amendments, both related to the goaltending position. Recently, Connor Hellebuyck straight up called for a rule change when his mask came off in play and surrendered a goal. Not long after, Minnesota Wild head coach Dean Evason called out Maple Leafs goaltender Matt Murray for deliberately knocking his net off its moorings.

Both of these discussions have run hot over hockey fandom and among NHL GMs. Regarding the Hellebuyck situation, Friedman says GMs have taken notice and a change is imminent.

This would assuage goaltenders' concerns over their safety for when their masks get knocked off. Within the confines of reason, if a goalie's mask comes off the play ought to get blown dead. That said, if goalies start exploiting that and pulling a Binnington, they should be penalized in the same light.

Now over to the Matt Murray item, Friedman reports that one GM and one broadcaster reached out to him and offered their insights on the subject.

The long and short of it is: nets coming off the moorings does vary from building to building, and if you make repeated intentional dislodging a penalty, they will stop.

Both of these rule changes make sense in theory, although practically it remains to be seen. They are both sensible enough, as we don't want goalies put in danger - number one - and taking advantage of safety protocols - number two.

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