Are Hockey Playoffs Best Of 5 Or 7
When the NHL playoffs roll around, one of the most hotly debated topics among hockey fans is whether playoffs should be best of 5 or 7. Traditionally, playoff series in the NHL have been best of 7, but some fans argue that a best of 5 format would be better. So, which is better? Let's take a closer look at the pros and cons of each format.
Best of 5: Pros and Cons
The best of 5 format has been used in the NHL playoffs in the past, but it is now reserved for the first round of the playoffs. Supporters of this format argue that it adds excitement to the playoffs by making each game an elimination game. Here are some of the pros and cons:
Pros
- Each game is an elimination game, which adds excitement to the playoffs.
- Shorter series allow for more upsets and unpredictable outcomes.
- Shorter series mean less travel, which can benefit teams in terms of rest and recovery.
Cons
- Shorter series can lead to fluky outcomes and can penalize the better team.
- Less revenue from fewer games for teams and the league.
- Less time for teams to make adjustments during a series.
Overall, the best of 5 format can be exciting and unpredictable, but it also has its drawbacks.
Best of 7: Pros and Cons
The best of 7 format is the traditional format for NHL playoffs, and it is used for all rounds of the playoffs except for the first round. Supporters of this format argue that it allows the better team to emerge victorious and provides a true test of a team's talent and depth. Here are some of the pros and cons:
Pros
- Allows the better team to emerge victorious.
- Provides a true test of a team's talent and depth.
- More revenue from additional games for teams and the league.
Cons
- Longer series can lead to fatigue and injuries for players.
- Longer series can become boring if one team dominates.
- Longer series mean more travel, which can be tiring for teams.
Overall, the best of 7 format is the traditional format for a reason. It allows for a true test of a team's talent and depth, but it also has its drawbacks.
Conclusion
So, are hockey playoffs best of 5 or 7? The answer is that it depends on what you value most in a playoff series. If you value excitement and unpredictability, then the best of 5 format may be for you. If you value ensuring that the better team emerges victorious, then the best of 7 format may be for you.
Ultimately, both formats have their pros and cons, and the NHL has struck a balance by using both formats in different rounds of the playoffs. Whatever your personal preference may be, there is no denying that playoff hockey is one of the most exciting times in sports!