It's a paradox of the NHL that business reasons stand in the way of improving the product on the ice. I don't think you could find anyone who would disagree that bigger ice surface and a shorter season would make for a much more entertaining game. But at this point, it's pretty clear that the actual product on the ice isn't the commercial draw of the sport. It's all about a pro jock culture serving as a backdrop for corporate schmoozing. Luxury box dining options and jersey sales matter more than excitement on the ice.
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