Quote:
Originally Posted by Philly06Cup
There have been studies to show that game management is real. Teams generally have close to the same number of penalties each game -- or at least closer than what would be statistically likely. Teams who trail also tend to get more favorable calls, as do home teams.
That said, that is such a small detail to nitpick. I don't even know if fans at large want consistency. People verbally shout for 'make-up' calls all the time when a non-call goes their way. Teams know that if they take a penalty in OT, they have to watch themselves -- fans will eagerly anticipate an even-up call. Game management is hardly ruining the NHL.
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To some extent it may be illusory. A team that's trailing will push harder and the leading team will play defensively. The penalties will result accordingly.
The problem for me is the consistency within a single game.