The NHL and NHL Players’ Association have ratified their collective bargaining agreement extension. The deal secures labor peace through 2030.
The league and union announced the approval in a joint news release Tuesday. The agreement required votes from both the Board of Governors and full NHLPA membership.
“The partnership between the Players’ Association and the league is stronger than it ever has been, and working together under this agreement presents a fantastic opportunity to continue to grow the game,” NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said.
Bettman praised the Board of Governors for supporting the deal. He said it strengthens the game and ensures teams deliver great fan experiences.
The sides reached a tentative agreement on the four-year extension late last month.
Key Changes Coming in 2026-27
The new CBA includes several major changes that take effect in the 2026-27 season:
• 84-game regular season with reduced exhibition games
• Shorter maximum contract lengths
• Introduction of a playoff salary cap
• No mandatory dress code for players
• Creation of a full-time traveling goaltender position
The traveling goaltender role eliminates emergency backup goalies, known as “EBUGs,” from entering games.
Ben Hause, longtime Colorado Avalanche EBUG, reflected on the change. “While I’m largely happy for uninterrupted hockey for, at least, 5 more years, this likely means my swan song is coming up,” he posted on social media.
“This CBA shows what can be accomplished when the NHL and the union work together — an agreement that will allow for the continued worldwide growth of the game. That is a win for everyone,” NHLPA executive director Marty Walsh said.
Walsh credited player involvement for the successful outcome. He thanked the executive board and negotiating committee specifically.
Quick Agreement Reflects Strong Partnership
Negotiations began in April and reached conclusion remarkably fast. This speed demonstrates the cooperation between the NHL and NHLPA that’s developed in recent years.
The same partnership produced the 4 Nations Face-Off earlier this year. It also paved the way for Olympic participation returns in 2026 and 2030.
Both Bettman and Walsh had said no major issues stood in the way of a CBA extension.
The current relationship marks a dramatic shift from past decades. The 2012-13 lockout reduced that season to 48 games. The entire 2004-05 season was canceled due to a lockout centered on salary cap implementation.
Financial Growth Drives Stability
The salary cap started at $39 million when first implemented. Next season’s cap sits at $95.5 million.
Bigger increases are ahead. The cap will reach $113.5 million in 2027-28.
Record attendance and revenues drive these increases. Both owners and players wanted to avoid another work stoppage because business is booming and the game is heading in a positive direction.
The financial success creates alignment between both sides that didn’t exist during previous CBA negotiations.
