Montreal Canadiens Discuss Impact of NHL LTIR Rule on Playoffs

The Montreal Canadiens and their captain, Nick Suzuki, have been reflecting on the impact of the NHL’s long-term injured reserve (LTIR) rule, particularly as it relates to playoff performance and strategy. During the 2021 playoffs, the Canadiens achieved a surprising victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs, swept the Winnipeg Jets, and overcame the Vegas Golden Knights, only to face challenges against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the Stanley Cup final.

According to Suzuki, then a second-year center, the Canadiens were at a noticeable disadvantage. The NHL’s salary cap rules, which are not in effect during the playoffs, meant that the Lightning were about US$18 million over the cap. “We didn’t really get helped out with that,” he recalled, noting that everything was above board.

The Lightning’s Nikita Kucherov, sidelined for the entire 56-game schedule following hip surgery, returned for Game 1 of the playoffs. Kucherov played a pivotal role in the Lightning’s success, leading in scoring and securing the Conn Smythe Trophy as the postseason MVP. “Obviously a loophole in the system,” Suzuki commented, explaining that teams utilizing this rule gain a significant advantage.

This situation isn’t new or unique. Captains and players, such as Mark Stone of the Vegas Golden Knights and Brandon Montour of the Seattle Kraken, have spoken on the topic, suggesting the need for fairness and potential changes to the system. The Golden Knights, for example, navigated similar waters in 2023, using the LTIR to bolster their roster for a playoff push.

NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly noted that most general managers are interested in revisiting the LTIR rules to possibly implement adjustments. Toronto Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving discussed a potential playoff salary cap as a possible solution, though he emphasized the need to carefully consider the implications.

While some players believe the system might need updating, others argue that no athlete would willingly miss games when fit to play. Nathan MacKinnon from the Colorado Avalanche expressed doubt, stating, “Guys want to play,” reflecting confidence in the integrity of players and teams.

Ultimately, the debate on the fairness and strategy surrounding the LTIR rule remains ongoing, with stakeholders considering various adjustments to ensure competitive balance across the league.