Quote:
Originally Posted by scotty2hotty
Here's my dream scenario ...
September:
All-Star game and week to serve as the official kickoff to the season - All of the major trophy winners are recognized and in-attendance
- Everyone is healthy and eager to go
- Bonus of great weather still in every city
Every 4th year - World Cup of Hockey instead of All-Star event - Hold the tournament in NA only for the first 3-4 events until well-established
- Logistics don't significantly impact the season
January 1:
- Winter Classic in the US
- Heritage Classic in Canada
February:
Stadium Series
Every 4th year - Olympics (alternating 2 years from the World Cup) - Any player NOT on an active NHL roster can participate
- Will get a fun mix of AHL, Europe Leagues, and Jr players
- Will be a more level tournament and likely more exciting
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This sounds pretty appealing. The only question is, is the World Cup a tournament or an invitational? If it's a tournament, then you have to set up qualifying and an expanded event. If one day the best player in the NHL is Japanese do you risk him never playing in World Cup? Kind of like Haaland of Norway in soccer. If it's an invitational, you can make up as many fake teams as you want, Europe, Under 23, Northern US, Southern US, Quebec, Ontario, Asia, whatever.