GMs propose rule for players who lose helmet on ice

Potential rule changes were a focal point at the annual GM meetings in Boca Raton, Fla. on Tuesday, where a few proposals were drafted by team executives.

General managers drafted a provision in which players who lose their helmet during play must immediately go to the bench or face a penalty, according to NHL.com's Dan Rosen. The league will also look at making helmets mandatory during warmup.

Additionally, the GMs proposed a rule that would allow teams awarded a power play to decide on which side of the ice the first faceoff will take place, Rosen adds. The current faceoff location is dependant on where the puck was located at the previous stoppage of play.

The American Hockey League has already adopted both of these changes.

These proposals need to go through the NHL's competition committee prior to being presented to the board of governors, according to Joshua Clipperton of The Canadian Press.

Team execs were also in favor of installing game clocks in the corner boards to help players, Clipperton said. He added that this rule does not need NHLPA approval. Clocks were used in both outdoor games this season.

GMs also discussed implementing one-minute penalties in overtime but it did not gain enough traction due to the concern the change would increase the number of shootouts, according to TSN's Pierre LeBrun.