The rule, which is also introduced in the Champions Hockey League, has arisen to prevent teams from regrouping in the neutral zone and thus slowing down the pace.
If the attacking team breaks the rule, a face-off is called in the team's defensive zone. They are also not allowed to change players and the opposing team gets to choose the side where the game resumes. If the rule is broken twice, a bench penalty for delaying the game is called, writes Hockeyallsvenskan on its website.
"Positive"
We are positive that the CHL, with teams from almost all international top leagues, is testing this. It will be an excellent opportunity to evaluate the rule. The fact that Hockeyallsvenskan is also testing it gives a double effect and we get more material to evaluate, says SHL's sports manager Johan Hemlin to TT.
What do you think of the rule?
The intention is more attacking hockey, it will not be as drawn-out a game, everything is aimed at getting faster attacking hockey with more shots.
"Very quickly"
When can it be introduced in the SHL?
- We will look at this and see the outcome. Such a decision can be made very quickly.
Exceptions to the rule exist, for example if a shot goes out from the face-off circle or if a tackle makes the attacking player lose the puck.
Hockeyallsvenskan is also introducing three more new rules: direct substitution of the center at incorrect face-off, players are not allowed to sit on the boards with their skates against the ice if they are not going to change - and if a goalkeeper is ejected, the penalty must be served by a player who was on the ice when the game was stopped.
