The NHL has come a long way.
Like other sports, it was completely different once upon a time, and even some rules that were cancelled more recently seem a little ridiculous to think about today. The game's not necessarily perfect, but it's definitely improved over the years, and if you want the proof, just look at five of these old rules that actually once existed.
Prepare to be amazed!
NHA CHANGES FROM SEVEN PLAYERS TO SIX PLAYERS IN 1911-12 SEASON
The NHA (which eventually turned into the NHL so we're including it) actually featured a seventh position on the ice; the rover! This player wasn't set to a certain wing, or spot on the blue line, but instead helped out where needed on the ice. Fans today love watching three-on-three hockey... but imagine six on six!!!! Too many skaters.
GOALIES COULD NOT FALL TO THE ICE
Prior to the 1917-18 season goalies were not allowed to fall to the ice. we guess this makes sense considering goalies weren't even wearing masks at the time, but it's safe to say that Dominik Hasek would have had a very tough go during this era. The man lived on the ice!!!!
NO FORWARD PASSING BEFORE 1929
Before 1929, players could not pass the puck forward. Imagine what the NHL would be like if this rule still existed today!!!! There'd be a lot less scoring, that's for sure.
NO RED LINE, OFFSIDES ARE INTRODUCED (IN 1943-44 SEASON)
Imagine an NHL with no red line. Where would the puck drop for crying out loud?! offsides were introduced this season and we still can't believe two-line passing was once a thing. Brutal rule if you had to ask this writer!
PLAYERS CAN'T LEAVE THE BOX AFTER GOAL
Penalties used to hold a bid of extra significance before the 1956-57 season, as penalized players were not allowed to leave the box once a goal was scored on a minor penalty. We'd see a heck of a lot more scoring in today's game if this one still existed!
This is just a small taste of what the NHL used to be like. For a full list of all the old rules, click here!
(H/T records.nhl.com)
