i think that the game has improved --who would have thought that that would have been possible???? Especially with the reduction in goalie equipment size I know that because of it, Belfour is much more flexible and saving some almost unstoppable shots!-- but more than anything I m just glad that the game is back PERIOD. I was having to watch other sports out of default--I m sorry, one nite, i can't belive i m admitting this but i even watched...baseball!!! It was horrible there was no hitting, no cussing, no creativity ---just a lot of spitting and lazing about!
All the games have this new energy to them and its amazing. I think it is in part due to the new rules but as well the boys are so happy to be back on the ice.

GO LEAFS GO!!!

--Sofie

I can't exactly say what the new rules are word for word.... but, some would include:

1) Permitting two-line passing. Which I think has improved the flow of the game.

2) Stricter adherance to penalties.

3) Reduction in goalie equipment size

4) Introduction of the penalty shot in overtime

Aaaaand, probably a million more rule changes that I can't think of right now!

Personally, I think the changes have made the game much more exciting. There's a unpredictability to games now that wasn't there before. Every moment counts.

Will someone briefly summarize the new rules? What's changed?

Well there are pros and cons to the new rules. I like the the fact that the NHL took away the red line. The open ice makes it easier to make new plays. However, I can't stand the amount of obstruction penalties that the refererees are calling. Even the slightest contact results in 2 minutes or less. A lot of players have taken advantage of the rule and have started crashing into the net. Eventually, that's going to cause some incident, and someone's gonna getr hurd really bad. It could be a goal;ie, or even a forward who dares to crash into the net. Tempers always begin to flare when that happens. Also, I don't really like the idea that goalies are restricted to clearing the puck in the corners. Personally, I liked the old defensive game where the the trap was played.