To Grow Game NHL Introduce Radical New Rule Changes

In a bizarre move that has left hockey fans scratching their heads, the NHL has announced that it will be introducing a number of water polo-style rules to the sport. The move, which has been met with widespread confusion and derision, is being touted by league officials as a way to make hockey a year-round sport and increase interest in southern markets and around the world.

According to NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, the new rules will involve players wearing snorkels and flippers while they play, as well as the addition of inflatable goals at each end of the rink. The puck will be replaced by a weighted foam ball that is easier to handle underwater, and players will be allowed to add water pistol like technology to their sticks to help shoot the ball into the goals.

Gary Bettman demonstrates the new 'Soaker Stick' that will be introduced next season during
a promotional event in Bali where the Commissioner is looking to establish a new franchise. 

"We believe that this is the future of hockey," Bettman said in a statement. "By introducing water polo-style rules, we can make the game more accessible in areas where maintaining an ice surface is challenging and create a truly year-round sport."

Bettman went on to claim that the new rules would revolutionize the sport and bring in new fans from around the world.

"Imagine the excitement of watching NHL stars like Connor McDavid and Alex Ovechkin diving into the pool, battling for the ball, and shooting it past the goalie," he said. "We think this is going to bring hockey to a whole new level."

Not everyone, however, is convinced. Hockey purists have slammed the move as a desperate attempt to pander to a wider audience, while others have pointed out the many logistical challenges of playing hockey underwater.

"It's just ridiculous," said Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner. "I mean, how are we supposed to skate with flippers on? And how are we supposed to keep the water from freezing?"

Despite the criticism, the NHL seems determined to push ahead with the new rules. In a recent interview, Bettman claimed that the league had already received interest from several new franchises in warmer climates, including one in the Bahamas.

"We're confident that this is going to be a huge success," he said. "We believe that water polo-style hockey has the potential to become the next big thing in sports."

Many hockey fans, however, remain skeptical. Some have taken to social media to voice their concerns, with many jokingly suggesting that the NHL might as well introduce skydiving and hang gliding elements to hockey.

As for the players themselves, most seem resigned to the fact that they will have to adapt to the new rules, no matter how absurd they may seem.

"It's going to be a challenge, but we're up for it," said Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby. "I mean, I've played hockey my whole life. How hard can it be to play it underwater?"