It’s a debate that seems to rage on in the hockey world. However, it’s something we may not see for a long time in the NHL.

The 3-2-1 points system seems to be getting increasing support from different areas of the sport. But when you have a commissioner in Gary Bettman that likes things the way they are due to the tight standings, all we can do is wonder what it would be like if it was ever a reality.

That’s what we’re going to do today. What would the NHL standings look like if a 3-2-1 points system was in place? Would it impact the playoff race? And would it be better for the NHL to eventually go to this model?

The 3-2-1 points system is utilized outside the NHL in some capacity. Teams get three points for a regulation win. They get two points for an overtime or shootout win and one point for an overtime or shootout loss. A regulation loss results in zero points.

Those that want this change point to two main factors. First, rewarding regulation wins. That would lead to teams trying to push to win in the first 60 minutes with more incentive in the standings.

Teams trying to win instead of settling for overtime would lead to more exciting finishes. That could also lead to more fans tuning in to out of town games especially if the playoffs are on the line.

Then imagine being in the crowd for a game where the teams are trying to win. The overall excitement level would be welcomed by most everyone.

Second, the loser point has been a major factor in keeping the standings tight throughout the season. Knowing that just getting to overtime guarantees you a point tones down what teams do late in the third period.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman likes the current standings format. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

It also throws games out of balance in a sense. Games going past 60 minutes mean three points are distributed. Regulation games are capped at two points. Going to a 3-2-1 system means each game has three points on the line giving an edge to teams who win without the need for overtime or a shootout.

Those that don’t want the change point to fact that the overall standings wouldn’t change that much. It would be more of a positioning thing. The gaps may be wider but generally, the same teams would be in line for the playoffs.

Let’s put that to the test. Here is what the NHL standings would look like in a 3-2-1 points system. These records reflect after Monday night’s games. Records will be reflected in total wins(regulation wins)-regulation losses-OT/shootout losses.

Colorado Avalanche: 31(28)-2-7, 97 points

Dallas Stars: 25(21)-9-7, 78 points

Minnesota Wild: 25(18)-10-8, 76 points

St. Louis Blues: 17(17)-18-8, 59 points

Utah Mammoth: 20(14)-20-3, 57 points

Nashville Predators: 19(14)-18-4, 56 points

Chicago Blackhawks: 16(13)-18-7, 52 points

Winnipeg Jets: 15(13)-21-4, 47 points