8 Sports That Desperately Need A Rule Change
2. The Trapezoid - NHL
The trapezoid came into play in order to increase more scoring opportunities as well as have more control over where the goaltenders can handle the puck. During the 2004-05 NHL lockout, a rules committee was formed to increase offence in the NHL. Thus, the addition of the trapezoid behind the net was made to improve scoring.
A trapezoid is marked outside of each goal net. The goaltender can only play the puck within that area or in front of the goal line. Should they play the puck behind the line or outside of the trapezoid, a two minute minor penalty for delay of game will be assessed by the referees. The IIHF (International Ice Hockey Federation) does not use the trapezoid.
This rule has been frequently criticised by NHL fans for various reasons. This includes putting more pressure on the goalies who aren't good at stickhandling as well as making the rules of the game needlessly complex. Most commonly, a lot of fans believe it's taken away the excitement of the competition as goaltenders are unable to play the puck outside of the trapezoid behind the goalie line.