10 Things the NHL Could Fix to Combat Bad Ratings in the Stanley Cup Finals

The NHL ratings are down and here are some ways to correct the problem.

Jun 15, 2024; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers left wing Dylan Holloway (55) celebrates goal with teammates in the third period against the Florida Panthers  in game four of the 2024 Stanley Cup Final at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 15, 2024; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers left wing Dylan Holloway (55) celebrates goal with teammates in the third period against the Florida Panthers in game four of the 2024 Stanley Cup Final at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports | Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports
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5. Video Replay.

Everyone hates it, get rid of it.

The coaches challenge is dumb too. I would rather the NHL get some calls wrong than to pause any game for ten minutes to debate the minutia of a parallax angle or whatever the heck they are talking about for 20 minutes when I hit mute.

And that's just goals, which I can at least understand. Video replays on offsides are an affront to the inventors of the game.

6. Arrogance.

The fans hate the electronic boards. Fair or not, they are universally hated. The NHL doesn't listen to its fans and this is just one example.

7. Ads on Jerseys and Helmets.

This is just disgusting greed and the cost isn't worth the reward. Like the electronic boards, the extra profits just aren't worth the degradation of the product. You can't put a price on the goodwill of your fans, and no matter what trends come and go, the only thing that will always be universally uncool is selling out.

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