NHL faces pressure to adjust playoff format as league expansion continues

As the NHL considers expanding beyond its current 32-team roster, observers are calling for a corresponding increase in the Stanley Cup playoff field. Currently, only 16 teams qualify for the postseason, leaving half of the league on the outside each year. Proponents of change suggest implementing a play-in tournament similar to the NBA model to keep more fan bases engaged throughout the final months of the regular season. Commissioner Gary Bettman has defended the existing structure, citing the high quality of play in the opening round of the current format. However, the lack of postseason access for teams like the Detroit Red Wings has spurred debate about whether the league should update its qualification criteria to accommodate future growth. Potential proposals include a best-of-three series model for bottom-tier playoff contenders to drive additional revenue and interest.

• 2:07 AMYahoo Sports — The NHL is expanding. It’s time for the playoff format to do the same