Changing The Nets

From the Canadian Press

NHL nets could look a little bit different this season.




After using a shallower model over two days at the research and development camp, league executive Brendan Shanahan indicated that the new nets will likely find their way into NHL arenas soon.



"I think that the shallow nets are something that I'd really like to try in at least an exhibition game and see how players react to it," Shanahan said Thursday.



The new design is 40 inches deep as opposed to the traditional 44 inches. It also features a clear plastic strip along the top and thinner mesh -- changes intended to make video review decisions easier.



Shanahan also liked a new "verification line" that runs three inches behind the goal-line and can be used in video review to help determine if a puck completely entered the net.



Since the changes being discussed won't impact the rulebook, the procedure for implementing them is still being ironed out. They'll likely be used during training camps and exhibition games before the hockey operations department makes a decision on whether they'll be used during the regular season.



"We're talking about the process and the steps that would go forward for that," said Shanahan.



The two coaches working the benches at the research and development camp are in favour of the new nets. Dave Tippett of the Phoenix Coyotes and Dan Bylsma of the Pittsburgh Penguins both liked the extra space the shallower frames created for defencemen behind the goal.



"It's a small variation," said Tippett. "What you're doing is giving players more space to play. I don't think it has a negative effect on the game whatsoever. It's only a positive."



Another change likely coming to NHL arenas is a piece of curved glass near the benches designed to protect players from the stanchion. Montreal Canadiens forward Max Pacioretty suffered a concussion last season after taking a hit from Boston Bruins defenceman Zdeno Chara and slamming in to one of those at the Bell Centre.



"The curved glass, I think there's a really good chance we're going to see that in NHL games this year," said Shanahan. "I think we all agree that the curved glass makes the playing environment safer for our players so we want to have it in the game."