what is an optional skate? I've heard people say it's not actually optional, if that's true why is it called that?
Optional skate is a type of practice. The practice itself is not optional but the physical act of skating on the ice is optional. These practices might include video review, strength conditioning, team meetings, talking to nutritionists, working with massage and physical therapists etc.
Usually this is where the star players will rest while still getting practice in, while benched players or struggling players will get on the ice for more practice, whether it’s taking shots or running drills or taking faceoffs.
This issue comes up a lot in fan fiction i’ve noticed, where they may have players who are in a long distance relationship say “oh i don’t need to go to work today it’s it’s optional skate!” and no that’s not how it works. These players will still have to show up, however like i said the skating part is optional. NHL payers only get 4 days a month where they are not doing anything work related.
Hope that answered your question!
