Concerning the 'shootouts':  My guess, given the wording of the entry
(especially the use of the word 'experiment'), is that they are
allowing them to use them during the exhibitions to try them out.  In
other words, this will be the experiment for this year's exhibition
season.  Similar to the 30 minute periods they had in the past.
 
Just a guess,
 
adam
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Adam Bryant
Boston University