Nets used in NHL games could be changing as soon as this season.While the size of the nets isn't going to be altered, the depth is likely to undergo a makeover. After using a shallower model over two days at the research and development camp, NHL executive Brendan Shanahan indicated that the new nets might be tested during the preseason."I think that the shallow nets are something that I'd really like to try in at least an exhibition game and see how players react to it," Shanahan said Thursday.The new design is 40 inches deep as opposed to the traditional 44 inches. It also features a clear plastic strip along the top, thinner mesh and a built-in high definition camera -- changes intended to make video review decisions easier.Shanahan also is in favor of a new "verification line" that runs 3 inches behind the goal line and can be used in video review to help determine if a puck completely entered the net.Since the changes being discussed won't impact the rule book, the procedure for implementing them is still being ironed out. They will likely be used during training camps and preseason games before the hockey operations department makes a decision on whether they will be used during the regular season."We're talking about the process and the steps that would go forward for that," Shanahan said. Source: ESPN
At least they're not just pushing them on the players like the NBA did the basketballs a couple years ago.
