During a recent episode of the Broop 32 Thoughts, Elliotte Friedman Landered on a subject that divides into the NHL: the format of the draft. More specifically, he explained why certain teams absolutely wanted to keep the decentralized model, while others argue for a return to a centralized event with all the training gathered in the same room.
According to Friedman, the answer is largely one word: confidentiality. After having discussed with managers and people well placed in the community, he found that, for several organizations, the main interest of the decentralized format is the possibility of working behind closed doors, far from the tumult and prying eyes.
In a context where each decision, each choice and each rumor can have an impact on the strategy of another team, discretion becomes a strategic weapon.
By staying in their own facilities, leaders have the feeling of better controlling their environment and limiting the risk of leaks.
Sensitive conversations, whether discussions on a targeted player, last -minute transaction talks or analyzes on potential choices, take place away from microphones and curious. The centralized format forces teams to be constantly rubbing shoulders with, increasing the probability that certain information filters, voluntarily or not.
Friedman underlines that this desire for secrecy is not just an excessive question of prudence, but a real element of strategy in a sport where the competition is played as much on the ice as behind the scenes.
In a world where social networks and insiders broadcast the slightest rumor in a few seconds, some teams consider that the decentralized draft offers them an additional mastery of the dissemination – or not – of information.
In short, behind this logistical choice hides a fundamental issue: to protect your plans at all costs. For these organizations, silence and discretion sometimes worth as much as a good choice for the draft.