THN's Andre Leal Wonders: Should The NHL Adopt The NBA's Play-In Round?

Nov 10, 2025

In a recent article on The Hockey News, Andre Leal wonders if the NHL should adopt the NBA's play-in round?

It would definitely make things interesting, especially come playoff time when the last four spots are battling it out in a one-game, win or go home contest.

The NHL is as competitive as it's ever been, and naturally, this brings up the idea of whether the NHL should implement a play-in or playoff qualification round at the end of the regular season.

thehockeynews.comShould The NHL Adopt The NBA's Play-In Round?The NHL is as competitive as it's ever been, and naturally, this brings up the idea of whether the NHL should implement a play-in or playoff qualification round at the end of the regular season.