McDavid calls for major overhaul of 'crappy' NHL rule.

When the National Hockey League first introduced the idea of a shootout to put an end to ties during the regular season, there was a considerable amount of excitement around the idea. Not only would the shootout bring a resolution to those pesky tie games but it would also add a nice offensive flourish to the final moments of the games.

That shootout however was implemented all the way back during the 2005-2006 NHL regular season and we have now reached a point where many believe the novelty has worn off and that it is a less-than-ideal way to determine a winner and a loser after the team's have competed for 60 minutes of hard fought hockey at 5 on 5 and an additional 5 minutes of overtime at 3 on 3.

While many fans and pundits have called for an end to the shootout over the years the NHL has continued to press forward with their existing format, apparently to the displeasure of some of the league's top stars.

Recently, Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid, considered by many to be the best player in the league, was asked to share his thoughts on the shootout and in a rare moment of candor McDavid revealed that he would prefer to see it become a thing of the past.

"Yeah I'd like that, I'd like that," said McDavid of going 3 on 3 in an extended 10 minute overtime period instead of the shootout. "I think the shootout... no one loves the shootout. It's a crappy way to finish a game."

I am personally inclined to agree with the Oilers captain here and no doubt he will find a lot of support among fans for his position. That being said McDavid also acknowledged the challenges that could come with any attempts at implementing such a change in the NHL.

"At the end of the day it's also about the player's health and safety," admitted McDavid. "It's a long season, overtime taxes a lot of guys, and making it longer could have some effects there."

Former NHLer Kevin Bieksa was also asked to share his thoughts on replacing the shootout with a longer overtime period at 3 on 3, and he also appeared to be heavily in favor of the concept.

"It's the first I've actually thought about it but I would love 10 minutes of 3 on 3 and then axe the shootout," said Bieksa.