The current NHL playoff format , introduced in 2013–14, was designed to create rivalries and exciting regional clashes early in the postseason. At first, it worked. Matchups like the Penguins vs. Capitals became annual playoff highlights. But over time, the system has weakened. Instead of enhancing competition, it now undermines it, especially beyond the first round.
Later rounds expose flaws in divisional seeding
When the postseason reaches its final stages, the cracks in the format become impossible to ignore. There’s too much imbalance between divisions. The Atlantic continues to dominate the East, while the Metropolitan Division’s top teams can’t seem to keep up. The result is an uneven final four that lacks drama or surprise.
This has become a pattern. In recent years, Conference Finals have often ended in short series, and Cup Finals have failed to deliver epic showdowns. Fans expect high-stakes clashes between elite teams, but the divisional path often prevents those matchups from materializing. Instead, we get reruns of familiar, one-sided rivalries.
Alternate formats could restore playoff thrill
A return to the traditional 1–8 conference seeding could fix many of these issues. This approach rewards regular-season performance and avoids punishing teams just because of their division placement. It also allows stronger teams to progress naturally, setting up matchups that feel earned rather than forced.
Fans have grown tired of seeing the same matches every season. Leafs vs. Bruins, Kings vs. Oilers, and similar pairings have become stale. The lack of variation makes it hard to maintain wide interest, and the magic of once-special clashes fades quickly.
Read more: Jaccob Slavin’s life, career, and impact on Team USA
This fatigue is beginning to reflect in TV ratings and online conversations. With excitement fading by the third round, the league is losing one of its most important entertainment assets. If the NHL is serious about growing the game and improving its product, it needs to reconsider its postseason design now.
Later rounds expose flaws in divisional seeding
When the postseason reaches its final stages, the cracks in the format become impossible to ignore. There’s too much imbalance between divisions. The Atlantic continues to dominate the East, while the Metropolitan Division’s top teams can’t seem to keep up. The result is an uneven final four that lacks drama or surprise.
This has become a pattern. In recent years, Conference Finals have often ended in short series, and Cup Finals have failed to deliver epic showdowns. Fans expect high-stakes clashes between elite teams, but the divisional path often prevents those matchups from materializing. Instead, we get reruns of familiar, one-sided rivalries.
Alternate formats could restore playoff thrill
A return to the traditional 1–8 conference seeding could fix many of these issues. This approach rewards regular-season performance and avoids punishing teams just because of their division placement. It also allows stronger teams to progress naturally, setting up matchups that feel earned rather than forced.
Fans have grown tired of seeing the same matches every season. Leafs vs. Bruins, Kings vs. Oilers, and similar pairings have become stale. The lack of variation makes it hard to maintain wide interest, and the magic of once-special clashes fades quickly.
Read more: Jaccob Slavin’s life, career, and impact on Team USA
This fatigue is beginning to reflect in TV ratings and online conversations. With excitement fading by the third round, the league is losing one of its most important entertainment assets. If the NHL is serious about growing the game and improving its product, it needs to reconsider its postseason design now.
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