Ken Holland, the GM of the Edmonton Oilers, isn’t alone in missing the old-school NHL draft setup. The league’s 2025 semi-remote format in Los Angeles left some players feeling disconnected and made things clunky for team execs, sparking nostalgia for the days of packed arenas and handshake-filled draft floors.

Editor’s Note: The NHL draft isn’t just about picking players—it’s a spectacle that builds excitement and human connection. If the new format dampens that energy, it could hurt the league’s ability to engage fans and make prospects feel like part of the hockey family. Holland’s gripes reflect a broader debate about balancing innovation with tradition.