WCHA has a math problem.

[bgpuckster]

I read that the 2nd and 3rd rounds of the WCHA playoffs to be held in Grand Rapids, Michigan is still being called the Final Five. However, since only 8 teams make the playoffs, and all will play in the first round, only four teams will be left. Why not just name it the WCHA Championship? Did they consult the Big Ten on this?

[pdt1081]

Name recognition. And the hope that eventually they can go back to 5 teams. I believe there was also some worry about using "Final Four" and infringing on the NCAA copyright/trademark, but I'm not sure of the truthfulness of that part.

[gmartin]

I would love to see the WCHA allow all 10 teams into the playoffs. Give the #1 and #2 seeds double byes into the semi finals. Get the other 8 teams to play 2 series to get down to the other 2 teams. Award the #1 and #2 seeds for the entire season.

[footballguy51]

Why? Aren't the playoffs supposed to reward teams for a quality season? Why allow everybody in the playoffs?

[BGhockeyfan94]

So teams like the old BG can upset the number one seed and go to the semis...anyway, I like that the bottom two does not get in the playoffs, it makes the regular season actually count for something. Let's say penn state shocks the big 6 and wins their playoffs...they get to go to the NCAA tourney...just because they won like 6 games in the playoffs.

[Freddie]

I would love to see the WCHA allow all 10 teams into the playoffs. Give the #1 and #2 seeds double byes into the semi finals. Get the other 8 teams to play 2 series to get down to the other 2 teams. Award the #1 and #2 seeds for the entire season.

Wrong on a whole bunch of levels.
No coach in his right mind would want his team to go in to a single game semi-final after a 2 week layoff.

The present format works just fine, even if the event is improperly named.