The NHL has introduced a new rule requiring every team to carry an emergency backup goalie on its roster this season. The goalie must meet specific criteria, including never having played in an NHL game under a standard player contract. This move aims to provide teams with an additional option in case of injuries or other unforeseen circumstances during games. The rule could significantly impact team strategies and depth chart planning moving forward.

Starting this season, each NHL team is required to have an emergency backup goalie on its roster. Each goalie must not have played in an NHL game under a standard player contract, played in more than ...