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NHL GMs support 3-on-3 overtime, but exact format still uncertain

Peter Chiarelli

Boston Bruins general manager Peter Chiarelli speaks during a news conference in Boston, Tuesday, July 24, 2012, where it was announced head coach Claude Julien was granted a long-term contract extension. Julien has coached the Bruins for five seasons, and won the Stanley Cup in 2011. (AP Photo/Bill Sikes)

AP

From Stephen Whyno of the Canadian Press, covering the NHL general managers meetings in Boca Raton:

In the AHL, they have a seven-minute overtime period, going from 4-on-4 to 3-on-3 after the first whistle following three minutes of play.

Now, remember that any recommendation must still be approved by the competition committee, which is comprised of five players and five NHL-designated club officials.

That’s important, since there have been concerns raised by the NHLPA about 3-on-3 overtime, and whether it could lead to “more wear and tear” on the top players. It may be that the union prefers going straight to 3-on-3 and ending overtime as soon as possible. There may be GMs who prefer that, too -- especially if they believe it will lead to fewer shootouts.

Related: Shooting down the shootout with 3-on-3 OT