NHL and NHLPA ratify new CBA with 84-game season, playoff salary cap, and Olympic return
In a landmark move for the future of hockey, the
NHL
and NHL Players' Association have officially ratified a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) extension that will keep labor peace intact through 2030.
The deal, which was voted on by both the NHL Board of Governors and the full NHLPA membership, introduces bold structural changes aimed at enhancing the fan experience and growing the game worldwide.
More hockey, fewer exhibition games, and a push for global expansion
Among the most talked-about changes is the expansion of the regular season to 84 games, up from the current 82. This shift comes with a reduction in exhibition games, offering fans more meaningful matchups throughout the year.
Also included in the agreement is a playoff salary cap and the end of mandatory dress codes, giving players more freedom off the ice.
For the first time, the league will also introduce a full-time traveling goaltender position. This move eliminates the rare—but much-loved—emergency backup goalie (EBUG) scenarios that occasionally thrust amateur goalies into NHL games.
Longtime Colorado Avalanche EBUG Ben Hause addressed the shift on social media, saying, 'While I'm largely happy for uninterrupted hockey for, at least, 5 more years, this likely means my swan song is coming up.'
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Bettman and Walsh praise new era of NHL-union collaboration
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman praised the extended agreement as a symbol of unprecedented unity between the league and its players. 'The partnership between the Players' Association and the league is stronger than it ever has been… this agreement… ensures we are collectively delivering a great fan experience in the years to come,' Bettman said.
NHLPA executive director Marty Walsh echoed those sentiments, calling the CBA a milestone in collaboration: 'This CBA shows what can be accomplished when the NHL and the union work together… a win for everyone.'
Also Read:
NHL salary arbitration update: Gabriel Vilardi, Kaapo Kakko, and nine others file as key contract talks begin
The deal—finalized just months after talks began—also clears the path for Olympic participation in 2026 and 2030 and follows the successful 4 Nations Face-Off. With a salary cap jumping to $113.5 million by 2027–28 and record-breaking revenues, the NHL is signaling not just stability, but ambitious global growth.
Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
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