NHL Playoff Push: Examining a 3-2-1 Point System

With the playoffs approaching in less than a month, NHL general managers met to discuss potential rule changes and league trends.

The NHL presented data on league-wide trends and provided clarification on goalie interference. While overtime rule changes are of interest to fans, another aspect from the 4 Nations Face-Off, the 3-2-1 points system, also sparked discussion.

Unlike the current system of two points for a win and one for an overtime loss, the 4 Nations tournament used a 3-2-1 system. This system awards three points for a regulation win, two for an overtime or shootout win, and one for an overtime or shootout loss, thus valuing decisive wins.

Fans often wonder how a 3-2-1 system would alter the playoff landscape. While used in the 4 Nations tournament, this system was not discussed at the recent GM meetings, meaning changes are not imminent.

If the NHL adopted this system, what impact would it have? This analysis examines how the standings and potential playoff matchups would look under a 3-2-1 system.

The Western Conference standings remain largely unchanged under the 3-2-1 system. Winnipeg, Dallas, and Colorado still lead the Central Division, and Vegas, Edmonton, and Los Angeles top the Pacific, with Edmonton and Los Angeles vying for home-ice advantage.

Minnesota and St. Louis would still hold the wild-card spots, with other teams closely behind.