The National Hockey League is contemplating a shift in its early off-season organization, drawing inspiration from Major League Baseball`s successful model.
This year marks a change as the NHL will conduct its draft in a decentralized manner from Los Angeles. Teams will operate from their own locations instead of congregating in one city to welcome new players into the league.
However, this decentralized approach might be temporary.
According to Elliotte Friedman from Sportsnet, there`s already reconsideration and potential regret about the decentralized draft, suggesting it may be a one-time experiment. During the NHL`s GM Meetings, a proposal emerged based on MLB`s Winter Meetings.
Every December, Major League Baseball hosts Winter Meetings over four days, bringing together teams, free agent players, and agents.
Last December, the baseball community convened at the Hilton Anatole Hotel in Dallas. The event included media addresses from managers and general managers, as well as the MLB draft lottery and Rule 5 Draft.
Centralizing decision-makers naturally facilitates transactions. In Dallas, MLB saw significant moves, such as the Boston Red Sox acquiring Garrett Crochet, Max Fried`s $218 million contract with the New York Yankees, and the Toronto Blue Jays` trade for Andrés Giménez.
Friedman mentioned a suggestion from the GM Meetings: Why not have the NHL host a similar event in late June or early July, combining the awards, draft, and free agency in one city? This idea was seriously considered, with some individuals keen to explore its feasibility.
The 2025 NHL Draft is scheduled for June 27-28, preceding free agency on July 1. The NHL has also been exploring modifications to its awards presentation, which last year took place the day before the draft. This timeline could potentially accommodate a consolidated off-season event.
While emphasizing that nothing is finalized, Friedman noted that this concept is under consideration.
Tristan Blackwood