NHL has found a way to make this year's skills competition more embarrassing then ever

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Josh tupper
January 8, 2023 (10:27)

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Last season the NHL brought the All-Star game to the Las Vegas Strip. With the game came some new skills competition events including a passing contest in the Bellagio Fountains and other events on the strip itself. None of the events were extremely well received, so in typical NHL fashion the league is doubling down on the idea.

Last night on the Hockey Night in Canada broadcast, during the 2nd intermission, Jeff Marek reported that the NHL has some very "Florida" ideas for this years event.

All-star skills speculation from Jeff Marek on HNIC, ideas being thrown around between the NHL/NHLPA include a dunk tank on the beach, a hybrid golf/hockey event, and some type of game shooting frozen burgers at alligators

While it appears the NHL is trying to appeal to a new crowd, this new format is driving away traditionalist who watched the event for contests like the hardest shot and fastest skater. Many fans don't want to sit through these challenges just to watch the few events they're interested in.

Ultimately everything will come down to ratings though, and how fans respond. How do you feel about these events?