Personally I think Shootouts are an OK idea.  I can remember in the
last olympics when Lindros scored to win for Canada in a shootout.  It is
without a doubt an exciting way to win.  Overtime is still the method of choice
but as mentioned before the players get too worn out and it is not fair for
teams on the road playing games back to back.  Teams would then spend more time
practicing breakaways in practice and coaches would have a set lineup of
shooters as well.  As a fan I would love to see a shootout.  A breakaway in
hockey is one of the most enjoyable things to watch in athletics. (With the
exception of David Volek eliminating the Penguins in OT!!)
        People have been hacking the shootout rule to pieces and I'm saying it
is not as bad as everyone is calling it.  Yes, overtime is the best
alternative but shootouts, just like a standoff in a western movie, get the
job done quickly and with much excitement.
 
 
                                                  -Bob Hoffman
 
 
N.Y. Islanders: "What A long, Strange Trip Its Been!"