The new format was proposed as a solution to for avoiding shootouts when deciding a gold medal game, while acknowledging other issues that prevent a 5-on-5 or 4-on-4 overtime sudden-death format.
“There are various reasons we can’t risk a long overtime game in the final,” said IIHF Competition and Coordination Committee Chairman Franz Reindl. “Arena facilities have to turn over quickly, often on the same night as the final, to accommodate new events coming in. There are also concerns from broadcasting and team management that have to be considered as well.”
“But with this new format we are able to address fan and team concerns about the existing shootout format in the final, which has been the major focus of our committee discussions over several seasons.”