If there is one thing that the NHL didn’t correctly, it was implementing the Four Nations tournament. While it really is a tune up for the Olympics that will be played in Italy in 2026, it ended up replacing the NHL All-Star game that happens every single year. One thing is for certain, and it is that the Four Nations tournament turned heads. It did so well, that the NHL is looking to possible do away with the event entirely.

The NHL Should Stray Away From the All-Star Game

The Four Nations tournament turned heads and in the best way possible. Not only did your everyday hockey fan tune into the event, but it was able to draw fans that hardly watch the sport to tune in as well. The first matchup between USA and Canada alone got the attention of the entire world, as they had three fights in the first ten seconds. It was not just that though. The views for the event went through the roof.

USA and Canada playing in championship game for the tournament drew 9.3 million views, making it the most watched game in decades. For a tournament that was basically a one-off event, had significant meaning. There is something special about putting on the jersey that allows you as a player to represent your country. And these games were competitive, much more competitive than an All-Star event. This has comissioner Gary Bettman thinking about scrapping it all together.

Per insider Chris Johnston, Bettman is not committed to holding the 2026 All-Star Game. The event is going to be hosted by the New York Islanders in Belmont. He went on to say that the Four Nations tournament raised the bar and rightfully so. They should scrap it altogether if I am being honest.

So what can the league do to replace the event? So likely having another four nations tournament will not likely happen, but there has to be a way to make for a competitive tournament. The World Cup of Hockey is returning in 2028, so having a tune up for that would be phenomenal and would be my favorite suggestion.

Team North America SHOULD be brought back. That was a team compiled of the teams next and youngest stars in the league. Given all the young and promising talent that is in the league right now, that sounds like a great way to market the game. Including the same countries that represented the four nations, alongside Czech Republic and even Russia would make for a very fun tournament. Finding a way to form better competitive hockey and also allowing it to be marketed towards the younger crowd is huge.

The All-Star game is getting outdated and it’s time for something new. The 2024 NHL All Star Game drew just 1.4 million views, so compared to four nations it’s not even entirely close.