Hybrid icing faces approval challenges after backing from general managers-NHL News
The idea of hybrid icing is most likely to become a reality in the National Hockey League (NHL) but certainly not in the near future, as its implementation has to pass a couple of regulatory hurdles in addition to the general managers’ approval.
Hybrid icing came under the discussion at the annual moot of 30 NHL general managers early in March, as it had been doing so for last several meetings in the past.
This time around, the proposal is said to have won enough mandatory support from the managers that could be considered for recommendation of a change in the rules in order to pave the way for its implementation.
Following the meeting, Carolina Hurricanes’ GM, Jim Rutherford, said:
"I think it just takes time. People change their opinions on things. I think this was one that was fairly close last year. But, it doesn't mean it's getting passed."
The idea needs support of 20 managers at least to table the rule amendment recommendations before the Competition Committee of the league.
It is for the committee to review the proposal in perspective of different aspects including the safety of players before either approving or rejecting it.
On approval from the Committee, the proposal is going to come before the Board of Governors for final approval.
A board of governors’ meeting is due later this year and if the matter comes up before them, its implementation will be within the sights.
Rutherford added:
"It was unanimous in our group. So, you know that's seven votes right there."
He was referring to the breakaway group of seven managers, who are expected to bring their point of view at the general meeting scheduled for Tuesday, March 13, 2012. The group had their point of view discussed at the GM’s meeting.
Chicago Blackhawks’ general manager, Stan Bowman, who is a part of the breakaway group said:
"To me, it is almost like there is no reason it shouldn't be supported. We'll see if there is something we are missing when we bring it to the bigger group."
However, the bigger group said that the hybrid icing is a good balance between the current icing rules and players’ safety.
It will minimise the injury risk to players while race for puck between fore-checker and defenseman in a game will be more competitive but regularised.
The NHL has tested the hybrid icing at its Research, Development and Orientation Camp for last two years.
In addition, it has also been used in a couple of North American ice hockey leagues, and Rutherford said that the data from them has influenced the NHL managers’ opinion in favour of its implementation.
While hoping that the regulators will finally make it a reality, Rutherford refrained from commenting on a timeline.
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