The goalies and the defense (which are who matter) are closer to their bench in the first and third period so it would normally be important to lessen that distance. The switch of defensive ends in the OT moves both teams into the second period configuration with the long distance to the bench.

They never use to switch because, as was the case in the NHL, one famous old goalie would trash his crease at the end of the third period, cutting up the ice with his skate and stick. Since he knew he was going to the other side for the OT, and the opposition would have to deal with the ice damage, the NHL put an end to that practice by making the goalie stay in the same crease in the OT as in the third period.

Nathan Hampton


On 11/22/10 9:50 AM, "Carol White" <[log in to unmask]> wrote:

Good morning!

I have seen this happen twice this season already.  Previously, when going
into an OT period (be it 5 min or 20 min) the goalies stayed in the same
crease/end as they were in the third period.

Now they switch ends.  Might be a rule change, but why?

Any thoughts on this?

Thanks, and have a Happy Hockey Thanksgiving everyone!
Carol
GO Gophers!!!

--
Carol S. White
NO MOPEDS FOR GOPHER ATHLETES!!!!