The Champions Hockey League has seen an up-tick in overtime offense since introducing the ‘no return’ rule for the 2025-26 CHL season.

Through 11 overtime periods, the CHL has seen more shot attemps and more action.  From the CHL:

An encouraging outcome is the significant increase in shot attempts per five minutes of overtime, which rose by approximately 51% compared to previous seasons. This reflects a more active and assertive offensive approach.

From a subjective perspective, the rule has led to visibly more “back-and-forth” action. This impression is supported by statistical evidence: alternating puck possession increased by 23%, alternating attacking zone possession by 17%, and alternating shot attempts by a notable 53% – each representing the highest values recorded in the past four seasons.

Ultimately, the introduction of the rule resulted in a 12% increase in games decided during overtime instead of shootouts compared to the combined average of the two preceding Regular Seasons.

The ‘no return’ rule, which applies during 3-on-3 overtime, prevents teams controlling the puck in the attacking zone from retreating into the neutral zone.  A violation will result in a whistle to stop play with a faceoff in the offending team’s defending end. 

“We are pleased to see that the ‘No Return’ rule has been successfully implemented during the Regular Season and is already having a clear, measurable and positive impact on the game,” said Fadri Holinger, CHL Sport Director. “The increase in quick transitions, greater pace and more frequent scoring chances, demonstrate that this adjustment is achieving its intended objectives. As the competition progresses, we expect the rule to continue contributing to overtime as a more dynamic and decisive part of the game.”

The CHL actively worked hard to promote adoption and understanding of the rule. The league spent time with on-ice officials, referees-in-chief, and teams across the league regarding the change, also distributing a rule clarification video to explain the change:  

 

 

Officials and fans have also both reacted favorably to the change.  The CHL recently conducted surveys among officials and fans to get their take on the changes. From the league:

Among more than 2,000 fans, 64% expressed a positive personal opinion of the rule, while 67% felt it had a positive impact on the game. Club representatives showed similar support, with 63% rating the rule positively and 57% acknowledging its positive effect on gameplay.

The strongest endorsement came from game officials: 87% viewed the rule positively, and 89% reported a positive impact on the flow and dynamics of overtime.

The IIHF has been working closely with the CHL on the implementation of this change. 

The NHL is certainly watching as well.