Canucks coach John Tortorella: Shootouts 'a gimmick'
Canucks coach John Tortorella is known for his strong opinions, which extend to the NHL's method of deciding ties.
Torts on shootouts: "a gimmick" that should be out of the league.
— Josh Clipperton (@josh_clipperton) January 9, 2014
Tortorella's dislike of the bonus format is understandable considering Vancouver's 2-6 record in shootouts under his leadership. The team is clinging to the final playoff spot in the Pacific Division.
Tortorella isn't the only one to speak out against the shootout. Boston goaltender Tuukka Rask suggested the league get rid of them mid-season, while Red Wings general manager Ken Holland has proposed extended overtime rules to lower the number of shootouts.
For his part, Canucks forward Zack Kassian believes the team shares some of the blame for their poor shootout performance.
Tortorella says shootout should be out of the game. I agree. But the Canucks, as Kassian says, "shit the bed" too often. Big points at stake
— David Ebner (@DavidEbner) January 9, 2014