What is the Wayne Gretzky Rule and how it changed the modern NHL forever

Wayne Gretzky’s influence extends beyond his playing days. A major rule change after the 2005 NHL lockout, known as the Wayne Gretzky Rule, transformed the game. It emphasized speed and skill over obstruction. Referees started calling penalties more aggressively. This created more space for offense. The rule change led to a more dynamic and exciting era of NHL hockey.