NHL Analyst Proposes Global Champions League-Style Tournament Over World Cup of Hockey

NHL analyst, Mark Lazerus, has proposed a new international tournament that would replace the World Cup of Hockey. Instead of focusing on country-based competitions, Lazerus suggests a club-based midseason tournament that mirrors soccer’s UEFA Champions League. The tournament would then comprise of NHL franchises taking on top overseas clubs in competitive matches.

Lazerus believes that this setup will add a refreshing twist to the usual national team games, offering new rivalries beyond the traditional matchups. He argued that such an arrangement would not only generate more fan engagement but also provide a financial boost for the sport.

As an example, he cited potential matchups like the Florida Panthers against Sweden’s Frölunda or the Edmonton Oilers facing off against SKA St. Petersburg. Lazerus highlights that these cross-continental games will offer fans something new, rather than the regular NHL season games. His proposal includes holding this tournament every other February, alternating with the Olympic years.

Lazerus’ suggestion comes despite NHL’s confirmed plans for a 2028 edition of the World Cup of Hockey. While the NHL commissioner, Gary Bettman, remains committed to this plan, if fan demand for more internationally-focused games continues to grow, the league may have to reconsider how international hockey fits into its future.