In what instantly becomes the most interesting All-Star roster selection process in professional sports, the NHL will reportedly arrange for two captains to assemble squads by choosing players from either conference in the league. This means that no only stars from the same conference could be pitted against one another, but potentially players from the same team.
NHL To Impose Recess-Friendly All-Star Selection Process
According to The Canadian Press' Carl Johnston, the idea is the brainchild of NHL vice president Brendan Shanahan, who consulted with former player Rob Blake and the NHL Players’ Association. A formal announcement is expected soon.
According to Johnston, fan voting is expected to still play a part, which means the captains will likely be allowed to select from a pool of players pre-selected by fans. While this eliminates what would be the thrill of a completely random selection by a captain, it also prevents a deserving player from being snubbed and thus alienating casual fans.
The new process is expected to take effect this season for the All-Star game scheduled Jan. 30 at the RBC Center in Raleigh. The teams will be selected on a live TV event held at the beginning of all-star weekend.
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