Breaking: NHL and NHLPA make final decision on controversial postseason format

It seems like we better stick to this for now...

It has just been reported that the NHL's controversial postseason format will remain the same for how as NHL insider Pierre LeBrun has confirmed that the league and the NHLPA have agreed to keep the current divisional alignment and playoff format for at least one more season beyond this one. 

LeBrun adds that any potential changes would be implemented no sooner than the 2020-21 season. He does mention that the two sides will continue to discuss the matter moving forward as fans and players will surely continue to complain about this. 

Both Tampa Bay Lightning captain Steven Stamkos and Toronto Maple Leafs star player John Tavares have criticized the current divisional alignment and playoff format throughout this season. 

A few years ago, it was Pittsburgh Penguins superstar Sidney Crosby was one to throw shade on the format, and then-Washington Capitals forward Daniel Winnik called it "the stupidest thing ever" back in 2017.

Last week, Florida Panthers' Keith Yandle dared to make a surprising suggestion on a new playoff format, as reported by Elliotte Friedman: 

“What I would like to see,”  Keith Yandle  said Monday, “is the No. 1 team pick its playoff opponent.”

Honestly, I asked him, could you see anyone actually agreeing to do this?

“Yeah, not really,” he smiled. “That’s tough.”

Then, he started trying to talk himself into it.

“The way the game is going, all the [advanced statistics], you could pick the team you match up best with. Better travel, everything.”

The “Selection Show” would be a ratings smash, for sure.

There were divisional changes made ahead of the 2013-14 season, however, since then there's been quite a bit of controversy. Elite teams in their respective conferences have often met in playoff rounds before the conference finals. For example, the changes have led to frequent early matchups between the Capitals and Penguins and between the Maple Leafs and Boston Bruins. 

Once again this spring, the Maple Leafs will face the Bruins in the first round... 

However, the changes will have to wait it seems...