Breaking: Bettman categorically shuts down controversial change to playoff rules

One of the most popular changes to the National Hockey League in recent years is the addition of 3-on-3 overtime during the regular season. It has cut down shootouts significantly, and made for some highly-entertaining hockey, as speed, skill, and several odd-man rushes dominate the game for 5 minutes or less.

This has led some to wonder if this rule should be added to the NHL playoffs.

This, of course, would not sit well with most fans - as much as 3-on-3 is enthralling, sudden death 5-on-5 overtime in the playoffs is one of the most nailbiting moments in sports, especially when it extends well into the night, going into a second, third, or even fourth full overtime period.

There have been games that have lasted the length of two full NHL games, and while to some that is beyond excessive, to most others, it's the most exciting hockey of the year.

League commissioner Gary Bettman agrees.

“The answer to that is no,” Bettman said, according to Sportsnet's Emily Sadler. “We don’t use the shootout in the playoffs, even though you can win an Olympic gold medal in the shootout. We, and again, I guess this is a question of degree, but we’re trying to maintain the core essence of our game and have it be relevant and entertaining. And so we like the game the way it is. Maybe you tweak things here or there.”

This is the right answer to what could have sparked a controversial debate should the NHL have decided to adopt 3-on-3 overtime in the playoffs. The playoff overtime format is one of the staples of the game, and has provided some of the most historic moments of all time in hockey.

Thankfully, Bettman sees it that way too.