Dallas Stars Would Benefit From Removal Of The Trapezoid

Many things have changed in the NHL over the last few years, but one curious aspect has remained: the trapezoid. The Dallas Stars could really benefit if it disappeared.

The Dallas Stars have an ever-changing style of play. They’re victims of a lot of controversy regarding how their system should work in theory and how it actually pans out on the ice.

However, despite these, the Stars and NHL as a whole would benefit from the removal of the outdated trapezoid that lives behind goaltender’s nets.

Current Netminders

Ben Bishop and Kari Lehtonen are both goalies that play a generally offensive-minded game. They’re both willing and able to come out of their respective nets to play the puck and while it may be petrifying to some Stars fans – considering we’ve seen it go awry one too many times – it contributes to the Stars’ offensive game.

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Being that both goaltenders are capable of playing the puck successfully more often than not, it makes sense that they’d be in favor of the trapezoid’s removal. It inhibits goalies’ ability to touch the puck in the corners without being penalized, which inevitably slows down the game.

With both men in the crease for Dallas likely to have the upper hand in puck handling to their opposition, it’s no wonder the Stars would be in favor of removing the odd trapezoid rule.

Speed of the Game

Not to mention that the NHL has grown in its fast-paced nature over the last few years, and it only looks to be getting faster. From a league standpoint, it would therefore make sense to rid rinks of the trapezoid in hopes of having goaltenders playing more like skaters.

Of course, it would call into question whether goaltenders should be treated as skaters – meaning they’d be eligible for contact outside the crease. This is likely the biggest obstacle for the league regarding how to proceed with the trapezoid.

But, it’s arguably best for teams like the Stars to not have the trapezoid and allow goaltenders who have developed puck handling skills to be able to play to their full potential.

Next: Lehtonen Deserves Recognition for Play of Late

Moving Forward

It would make sense for the league to continue its trend of altering the game to fit the new style that’s developed. However, change doesn’t come easy and, as with anything, it’d be likely that there would be teams whose goaltenders aren’t as talented handling the puck would push back.

Unfortunately, it’s a wait and see situation. If the change does happen, though, rest assured that the Stars would be in good shape.