The BBC Sport ice hockey commentary team of Seth Bennett and Kent Simpson has revealed a subtle but significant change to rink aesthetics. The advertising boards surrounding the ice have been lightened in color, addressing a specific challenge faced by goaltenders during play.

According to the commentary team, the adjustment was made because goaltenders were struggling to track the puck when it hit the backboards near the net. The darker boards previously made it difficult for goalies to quickly locate the puck after rebounds, potentially affecting their performance and reaction times. This change reflects the sport's ongoing efforts to enhance player visibility and game flow.

The modification demonstrates how even small visual elements can impact professional sports. By lightening the boards, the league aims to improve goaltender performance and potentially reduce scoring opportunities that result from lost sight of the puck. This change highlights the continuous fine-tuning that occurs in professional hockey to balance tradition with practical improvements.