With the playoffs approaching, NHL general managers discussed potential rule changes, including the point system. While overtime rules changes were a hot topic, the 3-2-1 point system, tested at the 4 Nations Face-Off, also garnered attention.
This system awards three points for a regulation win, two for an overtime or shootout win, and one for an overtime or shootout loss, prioritizing decisive wins. Fans often wonder how this system would alter the playoff landscape, especially given the current system that rewards losing in overtime. However, a points system overhaul wasn’t discussed at the recent GM meetings.
Let’s examine the potential impact of the 3-2-1 system on current standings and playoff matchups:
As shown, the Western Conference standings would remain largely unchanged under the 3-2-1 system. Winnipeg, Dallas, and Colorado would maintain their Central Division top spots, while Vegas, Edmonton, and Los Angeles would lead the Pacific. Edmonton and Los Angeles would still be competing for home-ice advantage.
Minnesota and St. Louis would still occupy the wild-card positions, with other teams close behind.
| CENTRAL | W | L | OTL | RW | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winnipeg | 48 | 18 | 4 | 38 | 138 |
| Dallas | 43 | 21 | 4 | 35 | 125 |
| Colorado | 42 | 25 | 3 | 36 | 123 |
| PACIFIC | W | L | OTL | RW | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vegas | 40 | 20 | 8 | 37 | 125 |
