NHL GMs Discuss Goaltender Interference Amid Rising Controversies

Discussions surrounding goaltender interference dominated the NHL General Managers Meetings, highlighting the ongoing complexity and controversy of the rule. With 105 challenges this season — the highest since 2019 — and 60 calls overturned, the league is striving to clarify standards among teams. Executives reviewed video clips of interference plays to ensure a consistent approach, acknowledging that while GMs are generally comfortable with current standards, the judgment calls involved can lead to debate. NHL officials emphasized the subjective nature of the rule, with factors like incidental versus deliberate contact and a goaltender's ability to reset being critical in determining calls. Kay Whitmore from the NHL Situation Room described goaltender interference as a 'convoluted rule,' suggesting that its controversial nature is unlikely to change. Overall, the meetings aimed to align perspectives as the playoffs approach, but achieving consensus remains challenging.