"The NHL, which already has 32 franchises, adjusted its divisions before the 2012-13 season, making the change from six divisions to four. Without any shakeup since, could Gary Bettman eventually decide to alter the landscape of the NHL? The NY Islanders, who have three opponents within 120 miles of UBS Arena, have one of the best schedules in the league in terms of travel. But what if the NHL elected to have four divisions in each conference? What could potential realignment look like?"
"For this exercise, rivalries were factored into decision-making, as it would be sacrilegious to break apart some of the greatest matchups that have developed over decades. The Easten Conference, with location being more condensed, current regional rivalries would flourish, while others could develop. The Islanders would be joined in the new Metro Division by the Rangers, Devils, and Flyers - a no-brainer."
Proposal recommends shifting the NHL to four divisions per conference to improve geographic alignment and protect key rivalries while enabling new ones. The Islanders would join a Metro Division with the Rangers, Devils and Flyers to capitalize on close proximity and reduced travel. A new Central Division in the East would group Blue Jackets, Red Wings, Sabres and Penguins to foster fresh regional rivalries among inland teams. Western realignment would aim to reduce travel by clustering franchises more tightly. The plan also suggests awarding automatic playoff berths to each divisional winner plus four wild-card spots.
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