Since the 2013-2014 season, the NHL has used a divisional playoff format. This format has repeatedly shown its shortcomings as at least one of the top teams in the conference (if not two) will be eliminated in the first round, making the competition much less exciting as the playoffs progress.
Many would like to see the league go back to the old system, the 1-8 format, where the 1st team in the Association plays the 8th team, the 2nd team plays the 7th team and so on. One of the last to have this wish is none other than Sidney Crosby.
In addition to eliminating the wild cards, this format would reward teams that have had a good season by having them play a worse team. The current format effectively puts no emphasis or advantage on the regular season beyond making the playoffs.
Bettman's assistant, Bill Daly, even added some mentioning that a survey of the league's GMs two years ago found that two-thirds of them agreed with the current formula...
