Gary Bettman Breaks the Silence on the NHL Playoff Format

Sidney Crosby, one of the best players in the game, has expressed the desire to return to the old format of NHL playoffs, it seems his statements have not impacted Bettman's decision to continue using the new format.

From 1993 to 2013, each conference had three divisions, the three division winners would grab the top three seeds. After that, it was based off of points, the No. 1 seed would play the No. 8 seed, the No. 2 vs. No. 7, No. 3 vs. No. 6 and No. 4 vs. No. 5. Each team would also re-seed after each round. Many players and managers have expressed their desire to return to this format, but Bettman said he does not want to return to the old format.

Bettman believes the current method is working well

The current format has been criticized over the past few seasons. Mainly due to the fact that it forces top teams to face off in the first round, but Bettman seems to think it is working.

In May 2022, Bettman stated that the league was not interested in expanding the playoffs to include more teams or games, these reports are now official that there will be no changes to the format.

If the playoffs started tomorrow, the Maple Leafs and the Lightning, who are second and third respectively in the Atlantic division, would compete in the first round. The Bruins would face off against the last Wild card spot, which is currently occupied by the New York Islanders.

The standings can still change, but it is evident that the format will remain unchanged.

As seen on Hockeyfeed - NHL delivers official decision on new playoff format