Looking over the NHL schedule probably makes one feel like it’s Groundhog Day. Nevermind the ridiculous amount of games against division foes (32 in total), but the NHL feels the need to not space these match ups out at all; thus, fans are left with the same Panthers/Hurricanes match up seemingly once per week.

Who is making this schedule? Some teams have an entire week off in the middle of the season (see the Kings recently) and that only serves to make players rusty and, as a result, worsens the quality of play. Now, you may be thinking that a week off gives the players ample rest, well, three days off gives players ample rest, seven days off makes players rusty.

The NHL schedule is a complete joke. The novelty of the key NHL match ups (Habs/Leafs) has completely worn off and I have not recognized any division match ups becoming more heated because of the increased intra-division play. The league can’t change this thing fast enough.

For Illegal Curve, I’m Richard Pollock.

Richard Pollock

Recent Posts

Winnipeg Jets Afternoon Links

Getting you set up for tonight’s Jets game.

9 hours ago

Neal Pionk takes next step at Winnipeg Jets morning skate, weekend return possible

He's closing in on his first game since January 13th.

10 hours ago

First media availability with Winnipeg Jets prospect Alfons Freij after first skate with the Moose

The 2024 2nd rounder is in Winnipeg where he'll spend the rest of the season…

12 hours ago

Game 68: Winnipeg Jets vs Boston Bruins pre-game report

A look at the projected lineups and pre-game interviews.

14 hours ago

Winnipeg Jets Morning Papers: Today’s Hockey Headlines | Mar 19, 2026

A daily roundup of Jets, Moose coverage — all the pro hockey news that matters…

17 hours ago