Overtime and shootout hockey provide edge-of-your-seat excitement, but have you ever stopped to think about how the points awarded for these games shape the NHL standings? Unlike the NHL’s two-point system, leagues like the IIHF and PWHL use a three-point model that prioritizes regulation wins and ensures consistency in points allocation. Inspired by these systems, I’ve explored how different models—including a hypothetical five-point system—might alter NHL standings and better reflect team performance. Would these changes improve the game, or is the current system just fine? Let’s break it all down.