Yesterday the National Lacrosse League announced that they are going to experiment with shootouts during select preseason games. The NLL has never used shootouts before, so, naturally, there have been some pretty strong reactions.
“I feel its gonna be a shooters paradise, if it was to decide a game a big time save or even a shooters mistake could be huge,” said undrafted rookie goalie Rance Vigneux, recently signed by Buffalo, on Twitter.
“I think it might be pretty interesting to see, it be exciting to watch some of the moves pulled,” said New England defenseman Craig England.
“I’m not sure how they will incorporate it as it’s very rare a game ends in a tie by the end of an overtime period,” said Minnesota forward Callum Crawford. “But would be fun to be selected to be a shooter in the preseason games.”
There seems to be generally two reactions; that it will be fun to watch, and some players, especially goalies, down right hate it. Thus far, fan reactions on social media and message boards have been negative as well.
“Good for fans and entertainment but I would hate to not make playoffs because another team is better at shootouts” said Buffalo forward Jamie Rooney. “But if it brings more fans I’m for it.”
“I’m open to the idea of shootouts especially if it adds excitement for the fans,” said Edmonton forward Curtis Knight. “It will be interesting to see how they work out in the preseason.”
One thing that needs to be stressed is the fact this is in preseason only, and it will not carry over to the regular season.
“It’s important that we continue to look at things to improve the game, and experimenting in preseason games is an opportunity to do that,” said Vancouver general manager Doug Locker. “With all experimental rule changes, there is no commitment to implement that rule. It is what it says it is: experimental.”
