I'm not a fan of this. I like all the teams being together and the players going up on stage and putting on the jersey with the team.
It sounds like they will follow the NFL and NBA where the top players all come together and just meet the commissioner on stage while all the teams' staffs are at home.
https://twitter.com/user/status/1717301390362505239
Quote:
This is still developing, but, according to several sources, the vast majority of NHL teams voted to decentralize the draft.
Ballots were due Tuesday, and there clearly is desire to try a new format. Discussions on how to move forward will be at the GM meetings in November and Board of Governors in December.
As a reporter who likes everyone being together for a change, I’m disappointed with the news. But not surprised, as there was growing opposition to the status quo for several reasons. The draft being held on June 28-29 with free agency on July 1 was a major issue. Cost is another. Some teams felt their plans were being discovered because tables were too close and things were overheard.
Whatever the case, I hope the NHL finds a new and interesting way to make it exciting. The NBA now holds an annual convention with its summer league in July. I’d love a similar idea in conjunction with the draft. Coaching clinics, equipment manufacturers, hockey job fairs, fashion/style, music/parties, you name it. Paint a blank canvas.
The new format is scheduled to begin in 2025, with an opening for June if necessary. If this year’s draft is indeed held at The Sphere, I can see the possibility of one final 32-team extravaganza. Go out with a bang.
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