New 3-on-3 hockey league '3ICE' set to begin play in 2021

Since the introduction of three-on-three overtime in 2015, hockey fans have loved the chaos that comes with it.

The desire to watch it non-stop may soon be fulfilled, as a new professional three-on-three league is set to hit the ice in June 2021.

The league, called 3ICE, was founded by E.J. Johnston - the son of former NHL goalie, coach, and executive Ed Johnston - alongside Hall of Famer Craig Patrick.

"Utilizing a full-sized rink, every game will consist of two, eight-minute halves using a running clock to keep the end to end action moving at an unprecedented pace," the league announced.

3ICE will consist of eight teams and travel to different cities during the summer. There will be a bracket-style tournament to determine a new champion at each stop. The plan is to get former NHL and professional hockey players to take part.

"Fans will have the chance to enjoy nine hockey filled weekends in nine different locations throughout the U.S. and Canada," Johnston said. "3ICE was created to bring the fans one thing ... pure, unadulterated excitement. Our players and coaches will be names and faces you know and love."

The league has signed television deals with CBS Sports, TSN, and RDS. Games will air exclusively in the United States on CBS Sports Network, while TSN and RDS will carry them in Canada.

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