REPORT: Change of rule in playoffs

This decision is temporary. The AHL will review the format again next summer when their Collective Bargaining Agreement expires.

The AHL expanded the playoff field to 23 teams in 2022, increasing from the previous 16 teams, to help generate extra revenue for teams recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. The current format includes an additional playoff round called the 'First Round,' a best-of-three series involving six teams from the Eastern Conference and eight from the Western Conference.

In the Pacific Division, the top team gets a bye to the Division Semifinals, while the second through seventh-place teams compete for the remaining spots. The North and Central Divisions grant byes to the top three teams, with fourth and fifth-place teams facing off in the first round. The Atlantic Division's top two teams receive byes, and the third through sixth-place teams play in the first round.

While the expanded format has provided financial benefits, it has faced criticism for including too many teams. The AHL will revisit the playoff structure next summer, with many suggesting a return to the traditional 16-team format used from 1996 to 2019 would be a prudent choice.

Source: Blade of Steel
Board of Governors approves 23-team playoff format in 2025