WHL announces three rule changes for 2026-27 season

A challenge must be made before the centre-ice faceoff following the goal. A team can use its timeout if it needs more time to decide, provided it has not already used it.

If the video review conclusively determines an attacking player entered the zone before the puck, the goal will be disallowed, and the clock will be reset to when the play should have been stopped.

If the challenge is unsuccessful, the team will receive a bench minor for delay of game on its first failed challenge.

A second and any subsequent failed challenges will result in a bench double minor.

Video review of major and match penalties

Referees will now review all major and match penalties, excluding fighting majors.

The review will take place on a video tablet at the penalty box and can be used to confirm the original call, reduce it to a minor or double minor, or rescind the penalty altogether.

No Return overtime rule

The WHL is also introducing a “No Return” rule for three-on-three overtime.

Teams with possession and control of the puck in the attacking zone will not be allowed to deliberately carry, pass or play the puck back into the neutral or defending zone.

A violation will result in a whistle and a faceoff in the offending team’s defending zone, with the non-offending team choosing which faceoff circle is used.

The rule is intended to prevent teams from retreating with the puck and slowing the pace of overtime.

Exceptions to this rule include when a puck leaves the attacking zone directly after a shot attempt or when a defending player legally forces an attacking player off the puck.

The WHL’s 2026-27 regular season begins Friday, Sept. 18 with five games on the schedule.

by Jett Schwaier

WHL announces three rule changes for 2026-27 season

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