from Chris Johnston of Sportsnet,

As the NHL and NHLPA continue to discuss extending the current divisional playoff format beyond this season — which is almost certain to happen, on a one-year basis — there seems to be some growing unrest among players about how well it’s working overall.

There is concern about the Boston/Toronto scenario in the Atlantic, where the matchup has basically been set for weeks and diminished the importance of games down the stretch. There is also a broader concern that the format doesn’t properly reward a good regular season with the most equitable first- and second-round matchups.

Now in its sixth season of existence, the NHLPA is wondering if the shift away from the 1-8 conference playoffs has had its intended impact economically, and for broadcasters and fans.

While the divisional format is likely to remain for 2019-20, the players don’t seem overly eager to commit to it beyond next season.

Talks are expected to continue this week.

more topics which were first brought up on Saturday Headlines...