There's a buzz around the idea of the NHL expanding to 36 teams, sparking debates among fans and analysts alike. One intriguing aspect is the potential impact on league-wide scoring. Historically, hockey has seen fluctuating scoring trends that correspond with strategic shifts, and an expansion might set off a similar chain reaction.

Adding more teams could introduce fresh talent and new strategies, likely resulting in higher scoring games initially. More teams mean more games, and a broader pool of players enhances the chance for offensive standouts to shine. The increase in scoring could stem from the entry of teams trying to establish a name for themselves. As new franchises often focus on high-energy offensive play to attract fan interest, this approach can lead to an uptick in goal totals across the league.

However, there's also the possibility that the scoring rates might stabilize after an initial surge. Throughout hockey history, whenever scoring spiked, the league and its teams adapted to reign it back in. For example, when offensive plays became dominant in the 1980s, defensive strategies evolved rapidly. Coaches began to implement systems focused on neutral zone traps and goaltending techniques improved, which eventually balanced out the scoring frenzy.

This pattern suggests that even if a 36-team league initially boosts scoring, a strategic countermeasure will likely follow. Teams will analyze high-scoring scenarios and develop defensive tactics to mitigate them. Moreover, the learning curve for new teams can be steep. As they acclimate to the NHL's pace and rigor, their scoring rates might plateau, contributing to a more balanced league.

Additionally, the expansion could influence the talent distribution. With more teams, the draft pool spreads thinner; young players might get thrust into key roles sooner than they would in the current setup. This early exposure can accelerate their development, potentially leading to more dynamic and skilled offensive players. As these players mature, they might sustain higher scoring rates, keeping the league's scoring trend on an upward trajectory.

Conversely, teams may also struggle with depth, especially on the defensive end. Weaknesses in blue line depth and goaltending could result in higher goals against, which feeds into the scoring increase. This scenario could force general managers and coaches to innovate and prioritize offensive strategies, knowing their defensive capabilities might lag.

The introduction of these new dynamics aligns with the notion that NHL scoring trends are cyclical and responsive to changing conditions. Expansion brings uncertainties and excitement, and it could usher in a new era of high-scoring games followed by strategic recalibrations.

In conclusion, the NHL's rumination on expanding to 36 teams presents exciting possibilities for the sport. While it’s plausible that expansion could amplify league-wide scoring, history suggests that the NHL's strategic landscape will adjust, potentially curbing any sustained scoring outburst. Regardless, such an expansion would undoubtedly add a new layer of complexity and excitement to the game, delighting hockey fans worldwide.