NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell is standing by the league's controversial decision to allow flexible scheduling for Thursday Night Football, arguing it ensures better matchups for fans. Critics, including players and some teams, say it disrupts preparation and recovery time, but Goodell insists the move prioritizes viewer experience.

Editor’s Note: Flex scheduling shakes up the NFL’s routine, and while it might mean more exciting prime-time games, it also stirs debates about player welfare and fairness. If you’re a fan, this could mean fewer dud matchups—but if you’re a player or coach, it’s another logistical headache. Either way, it’s a sign the NFL is willing to tweak tradition for ratings.

The NHL tried something new this year by holding a "decentralized draft," where teams stayed in their home cities instead of gathering in one place. But this op-ed argues that the traditional centralized draft—where everyone comes together—is still the way to go, using the Devils fan experience as a key example. The energy, camaraderie, and spectacle of an in-person event just can’t be replicated remotely.

Editor’s Note: Drafts aren’t just about picking players—they’re big, emotional events for fans. Splitting teams up might save money or streamline logistics, but it risks losing the magic that makes the draft a shared celebration. If the league wants to keep fans engaged, they might need to rethink this experiment.