John H. writes...
>Yes indeedy-doody.  A couple of years ago, this would result in a 4-on-4 in
>college and a 5-on-5 in the NHL.  But, they've flip-flopped.  Now, the NHL
>takes two men (or women) off the ice for coincidentals but college doesn't.
 
>I prefer seeing 4-on-4's and even 3-on-3's, but I can see the argument
>against them in college hockey.  IMHO, this favors the more talented team,
>and there is a larger variance in college than in the NHL with regard to
>talent level from team to team.  For example, with no offense intended to
>the Irish: putting Michigan and Notre Dame in a 3-on-3 situation is almost
>giving Michigan a goal, maybe two.  Keeping them at 5-on-5 favors ND,
>relatively speaking.  Hence, I agree with the current rule.  I don't want
>the game to be decided by 3-on-3 or 4-on-3 goals.
 
>Final note, back in the mid-80s the NHL was taking two men off for
>coincidentals, but Edmonton was killing everyone 4-on-4, so they changed the
>rule.  At the time, staying 5-on-5 was known as "The Edmonton Rule."  The
>NHL has since switched back.
 
     Also, I think they wanted to discourage a team with talented skaters
from sending a goon out to try to goad an opponent into coincidental minors
in an attempt to take advantage of a 4-on-4.
 
-Glenn
 
>  John H
>  U Mich
>  GO Blue! GO OILERS!