IIHF President wants 3-on-3 hockey at the Olympics

If the President of the International Ice Hockey Federation gets his way, we'll be seeing 3-on-3 hockey at a future Winter Olympics. And, to clarify, Luc Tardif isn't talking about overtime during the traditional hockey tournament.

"I like the idea of including 3-on-3 hockey in the Olympic program," said Tardif this week. "When we first talked about it, everyone was surprised. But in the process of communication, we have already gained the support of a number of leading countries, including Russia."

For anyone unaware, a new 3-on-3 hockey league is coming, with the first puck drop scheduled to take place on June 18th of this year. "3Ice", which will feature teams six teams, has not yet announced any players for the league, but coaches include recognizable names like Guy Carbonneau, Grant Fuhr, John LeClair, Joe Mullen, Larry Murphy and Bryan Trottier. The league also has TV deals with CBS Sports, RDS, ESPN, and TSN.

"Many are interested in the development of this new discipline," Tardif explained. "It is clear that its appearance in the Olympics in 2026 is almost impossible, but we are already thinking about the next Games (2030). We need to address this issue, or someone else will do it. I would prefer 3-on-3 hockey remain in the IIHF system."

There's no doubt a 3-on-3 system will provide for faster and, possibly, more exciting action. 3Ice Commissioner Craig Patrick said in a recent interview the competition will "thrive on pure skill, creativity, play making and goal scoring."

Source: Sport24.ru

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