Overview
- The Professional Hockey Players’ Association began strike action on Dec. 26, triggering the postponement of 13 Friday games across the 30-team league.
- The ECHL says its last, best, and final offer would lift the salary cap by about 19.8% with retroactive pay, raise per diems, add guaranteed days off, and expand equipment options.
- Union leaders cite unresolved issues including limits on back‑to‑back travel, guaranteed days off, offseason health benefits, equipment standards, and overall compensation.
- The PHPA filed an unfair labor practice charge with the NLRB, accusing the league of unlawful direct communication with players and coercive conduct during bargaining.
- Teams initially offered mixed responses—some planned to play before postponing—while both sides say they remain open to negotiations and players face uncertainty over pay, housing, and medical coverage during the stoppage.