Unless I'm mistaken, historically the cup was awarded to whoever wanted to compete for it. The rules started to change as teams trekked (literally) from up north to compete only to lose by 28-0 and such. They then made it more memorial cup style where the best teams of the various leagues could compete. The NHL later adopted it as their trophy. If the season is lost it would be very redeeming to see the best teams from all the professional leagues compete for it. True spirit of the trophy!

__________________