AHL rule changes for 2004-05:

- TAG-UP OFFSIDE: In a delayed offside situation, the offending player(s) can negate the offside by clearing out of the offensive zone. This should increase forechecking while reducing stoppages in play.

- NO-TOUCH ICING: Icing infractions will be blown down automatically when the puck crosses the goal-line. The rule is used in international play, in major junior and college and should decrease the number of serious injuries resulting from races for the puck.

- INCREASED NEUTRAL ZONE: The width of the blue-lines and centre red-line expands to 24 inches from 12 and passes are permitted from the defensive edge of one blue-line to the offensive edge of the other blue-line. This is a variation of the wider (36 inch) lines the AHL experimented with in 2003-04. The attacking zone remains 60 feet, though the goal-lines will move back from 13 to 11 feet.

- SMALLER PADS: The maximum width of goalie pads is reduced from 12 to 10 inches, providing additional scoring area for shooters.

- RESTRICTED AREA: For the first seven weeks of the regular season, the AHL will restrict the area where goaltenders can play the puck. Although some details need to be finalized, the idea is to have an area just beyond the size of the goal crease behind the net in which goalies are permitted to assist the defence. Goalies can play the puck in front of the goal-line at all times. Following an evaluation process, the AHL will decide whether or not the rule will remain.