Let's face it, the NHL needs some changes. A random Monday night WWE show draws more TV viewers than the NHL's Winter Classic. This is Part 1 of a series, not sure how many they will be, but I can promise you that they won't stop until the NHL is perfect. Or at least it will be able to truly call itself one of the 4 major sports leagues.
This portion will focus on contraction. The NHL would be getting addition by subtraction, not only in terms of talent but also interest in the game.
Contraction-
30 teams in the NHL is two too many right now. While in the expansion phase, they spread themselves too thin by expanding at a torrid pace. The talent level isn't acceptable and by removing 2 teams, it will have a league-wide improvement. The NHLPA probably wouldn't be in favor as it would cost 35 players a job, but they would be in favor of other parts of the overhaul so it would be part of the compromise.
The increase in talent would improve the game and it's appeal to fans. It would be faster and better hockey overall. Each team would basically be adding a 3rd line player in place of a 4th liner. Might not seem like a big deal, but the trickle effect would help to narrow the gap between the elite teams and the bottom feeders. A little parity can't hurt.
With that said, in my proposal the two teams that are contracted are the Florida Panthers and Phoenix Coyotes.
Phoenix is an easy pick as they are currently owned by the NHL, minimum compensation would be needed. They are also one of the lowest teams in attendance even though they are one of the best teams in the league.
Florida is annually one of the worst teams in attendance and part of the NHL's attempt to bring hockey to the south. It has failed miserably in South Beach as hockey just doesn't seem to mix well with the sand. 2 teams in the state of Florida works for most sports, but not hockey.
Look for Part 2 next week!
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