Folks who dislike the current ECAC playoff format are missing the point.
  It is designed to give a definite edge to the top ranked team remaining
when they get to LP.   That Olympic ice has produced some unexpected
results,  and the ECAC wants its top teams to get a solid shot at the first
game bye in the NC$$ regionals.   For too long the ECAC has had teams
playing at a disadvantage at the regionals (although last year was the
exception to the rule).
 
        Actually,  for the ECAC preliminary round of ten teams,  I still really
like Richard's idea of two games,  total goals.   Only I would do it on
Thursday and Saturday nights and make it home and home.   That works well
in soccer oversees,  and guarantees two rabid sold out barns per pair of
teams.   It'll never happen,  though.
 
        Also,  FWIW,  I personally don't think the ECAC will do well in the NC$$'s
until they get off that big ice in Placid.   While everyone who goes to LP
rave's about the ambiance,  the perfect size of the building,  and all the
other Olympic village type of warm and fuzzies,  I think it instills some
habits in the style of play that are not good when playing on NHL sized ice
a week later.   That extra 7.5 feet of ice on each side of the rink really
changes the game.   I would much prefer Albany for the ECAC finals if it
really wants to do well in the NC$$'s.
 
        -- Dick Tuthill
 
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