Particle.news
Download on the App Store
32 ARTICLES
·
2w ago

NHL, Players’ Union Sign Four-Year CBA Extension, Await Ratification

The memorandum outlines an expanded 84-game season; new limits on contract lengths; a first-ever playoff salary cap; a permanent emergency backup goaltender role.

Image
NHL commissioner Gary Bettman (right) and NHL Players' Association executive director Marty Walsh agree four-year contract extension
Feb 26, 2024; Dallas, Texas, USA; A view of the face-off circle and an NHL puck and the Dallas Stars logo and hockey sticks during a face-off in the third period of the game between the Dallas Stars and the New York Islanders at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports/File Photo
Image

Overview

  • The extension secures labor peace through the 2029–30 season, delaying any further bargaining until after that period.
  • Teams will begin an 84-game regular season in 2026–27 and cut preseason play to four games per club.
  • Player contracts will be capped at seven years for re-signing and six years for free agents.
  • A new playoff salary cap will eliminate the long-term injured reserve loophole and enforce salary-compliant postseason rosters.
  • Each franchise will now carry a permanent emergency backup goaltender who travels and practices with the team.