Is a change of rule for the NHL Entry Draft incoming?
NHL insider Elliotte Friedman has hinted at a significant potential change to the NHL Entry Draft rules on his latest "32 Thoughts" podcast.
Draft eligibility requires players to be at least 18 years old by September 15 of the draft year and not older than 20 by December 31. Players who are 19 years old on draft day are also eligible unless they were previously drafted and remain unsigned.
Friedman revealed that the NHL is considering a rule change that would make only 18-year-olds eligible for selection in the first round. For rounds two through seven, teams would not be allowed to draft 18-year-olds, focusing those rounds on older prospects.
If implemented, this adjustment would mark a considerable shift in the draft process, potentially altering team strategies and player development paths. The hockey world is now watching to see if the NHL Players' Association (NHLPA) will approve this proposal, as it could impact the league's future talent pipeline.
As seen on PuckReporter
Big changes on the horizon for the NHL draft which will make a significant difference
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 18 | 22 ANSWERS Is a change of rule for the NHL Entry Draft incoming? Do you think this rule change for the NHL entry draft in the NHL would be good? | ||
| Yes | 16 | 72.7 % |
| No | 6 | 27.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
