In the return games of the Champions Hockey League (CHL) Round of 16, games tied in aggregate score after regulation will be heading into overtime - bringing the “No Return” rule back into effect. The rule has been introduced at the start of the 2025/26 CHL Season.
Implemented in cooperation with the IIHF the “No Return” rule prohibits teams from exiting the attacking zone in puck possession during 3-on-3 overtime. The aim is to eliminate continuous regrouping and increase offensive plays and scoring chances, ultimately leading to a game-winner. More details on the rule’s introduction can be found on the here and an explainer video is available on the CHL YouTube channel.
Game Impact: “No Return” Rule Drives Change - Insights from the Regular Season
With the Regular Season completed, the CHL has reviewed key performance indicators to assess the impact of the newly introduced “No Return” rule during 3-on-3 overtime. The data from the 11 overtime periods played so far this season shows encouraging trends aligned with the rule’s intended objectives.
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.
Survey Results: Broad Support from Game Officials, Clubs and Fans
To assess the perception of the “No Return” rule, the CHL conducted three targeted surveys: one among team officials, one among game officials, and another one among fans across Europe. All three groups provided valuable feedback on how the rule has influenced the game, with results indicating widespread approval and a shared sense that overtime play has become more engaging and strategically offensive.
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 rule will apply in potential overtime periods in the return games of the Round of 16, Quarter-Finals, Semi-Finals and in the ultimate one-game CHL Final.
Operational Measures: Clarification and Support
During the Regular Season, the CHL took proactive steps to support the consistent application of the newly introduced “No Return” rule. These included the production and distribution of a rule clarification video, enhanced briefings for game officials, referees-in-chief and clubs, as well as bilateral discussions with game officials.
"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.”