Articles / Penalties Are Up This Season

Penalties Are Up This Season

K
Kuklas Korner
Oct 20, 2025 11:54 AM

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The NHL has seen a significant increase in penalties this season, raising eyebrows among fans and analysts alike. A deep dive into the statistics shows that the average number of penalties per game has risen, which could impact teams' strategies and overall game flow. This uptick in penalties could be linked to increased enforcement of certain rules, leading to a shift in how players approach the game.

Captain of the New Jersey Devils, Nico Hischier, has weighed in on the situation, suggesting that while players must adapt to the changing rules, the increased penalties can disrupt the rhythm of the game. Teams are now focusing more on discipline, as players like Sidney Crosby of the Pittsburgh Penguins navigate the fine line between aggressive play and potential penalty calls.

Critics argue that the rise in penalties may dilute the action on the ice, making games less fluid and exciting. Coaches are adjusting their strategies, preparing their teams to face situations where power plays could dominate the scoring. Stars such as Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs have showcased exceptional skill in capitalizing on power plays, emphasizing the need for teams to have solid penalty-killing units.

As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how teams adapt to the new reality and whether the league will make further adjustments to its officiating policies. The debate continues as to whether more is better when it comes to penalties, with fans calling for a balance between fair play and an engaging game experience.