Of course it deserves an asterisk.
It's the first non-contiguous season in decades which sets it apart from the lockout-shortened years. In the lockout years, everyone knew the number of games in the regular season, and number of teams in the playoffs, before the season began. To have the parameters regarding number of games and qualifying teams change part way through the season is completely different. Add in the lengthy pause, in some cases offering injury reinforcements to certain teams and there is another reason for the asterisk. The removal of home-ice advantage - which is demonstrably larger in the playoffs than regular season - is another reason.
How much weight is put into the asterisk, however, is up to the individual.
__________________
"I think the eye test is still good, but analytics can sure give you confirmation: what you see...is that what you really believe?"
Scotty Bowman, 0 NHL games played
|