Revisiting NHL Playoff History: How the Loser Point Could Have Changed Key Series Outcomes
Five NHL series results that change if the league applied its dumbest rule to the playoffs
Theathleticuk
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The article explores how the NHL's controversial loser point rule, if applied during playoffs, would have altered the outcomes of five significant series. This includes the Ducks vs. Red Wings (2013), Blues vs. North Stars (1968), Panthers vs. Devils (2012), Nordiques vs. Canadiens (1985), and Panthers vs. Bruins (2023).
- 01In the 2013 playoffs, the Anaheim Ducks would have advanced in five games against the Detroit Red Wings due to half-wins for OT losses.
- 02The Minnesota North Stars would have won their 1968 series against the St. Louis Blues in six games, changing the narrative of the expansion team's playoff success.
- 03The 2012 series would see the Florida Panthers winning against the New Jersey Devils, marking their first series victory since 1996.
- 04In 1985, the Montreal Canadiens would have eliminated the Quebec Nordiques in Game 7 without allowing them a chance to compete in overtime.
- 05The 2023 series outcome would shift, with the Boston Bruins winning against the Panthers, potentially altering the trajectory of both franchises.
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The article examines the potential impact of the NHL's 'loser point' rule if it were enforced during the playoffs, suggesting significant changes to historical outcomes. The Ducks vs. Red Wings series in 2013 would have resulted in a swift Ducks victory in five games instead of a seven-game battle. In 1968, the North Stars would have taken down the Blues, altering the narrative of expansion teams in the playoffs. The Panthers' 2012 series against the Devils would have seen Florida advance, marking a pivotal moment in their franchise history. The Canadiens would have eliminated the Nordiques in 1985 without allowing for overtime heroics, while in 2023, the Bruins would have secured their series against the Panthers, potentially changing the course of both teams' futures. This exploration raises questions about the consistency of rules and how they shape playoff narratives.
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The application of the loser point could reshape playoff narratives, affecting team legacies and fan expectations.
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