NHL evaluating All-Star Game format: 4 Nations 'raised the bar'

The NHL is evaluating its All-Star Game format, commissioner Gary Bettman said Wednesday.

The league "raised the bar" for what All-Star Weekend could look like with the success of the 4 Nations Face-Off, Bettman said, according to Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli.

The 4 Nations Face-Off, which replaced the All-Star Game this season, was the first best-on-best men's hockey tournament since the 2016 World Cup of Hockey. The event drew massive ratings with over 16 million viewers in North America watching Canada knock off the United States in overtime of the championship game.

The 2024 All-Star Game featured four captains drafting teams and competing in a short three-on-three tournament. The event also included a revamped skills challenge in which Connor McDavid won the $1-million prize.

In previous years, the four teams were comprised of players from each division. The All-Star Game moved to a three-on-three tournament format in 2016.

The New York Islanders are scheduled to host the 2026 All-Star Game.

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