The recent NHL Board of Governors meeting in Los Angeles didn`t bring any major surprises. However, Commissioner Gary Bettman did characterize the update on collective bargaining as “quite extensive,” covering both the procedural aspects and the substance of the discussions.
It is understood that the National Hockey League and the NHL Players` Association are nearing an agreement in their collective bargaining talks.
Bettman indicated that an announcement might be made once an understanding is reached, but stressed that any agreement would require ratification. He added, “We`re not there at the moment.”
Earlier this season, the league and the union successfully projected the salary cap for the next three years, anticipating it will reach an unprecedented high. This was considered the most significant hurdle overcome. Both sides have worked diligently to keep other details private. Nevertheless, some notable points believed to be under consideration include:
- Reducing the maximum contract duration from eight years (for a team`s own player) to seven years (for a free agent from another team).
- Extending draft rights for players until the age of 22.
- Allowing certain first-round draft selections from the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) to be eligible for the American Hockey League (AHL) earlier than currently permitted. (There`s a suggestion this change might apply to one player per NHL club rather than strictly first-rounders, but its likelihood is uncertain).
- Eliminating contracts with deferred salary payments.
- Creating a dedicated “permanent” emergency backup goaltender (EBUG) role to practice and travel with the NHL team.
- Making adjustments to revenue sharing intended to benefit mid-market teams.
Whatever the final outcome, it is expected that the details will be confirmed and announced relatively soon.
Regarding Other Matters:
Bettman mentioned that Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly provided an update concerning expressions of interest in league expansion. Bettman stated, “there`s nothing new. We have no pending applications and we`re not seeking to initiate a formal process at this point.”
During the previous expansion processes involving Vegas and Seattle, Bettman publicly announced the expansion fee. He was asked if a specific price has been set for any potential future expansion.
Bettman replied, “To the extent that there have been expressions of interest, we talk generally about it… But nothing we need to get into.”
Duncan Priestley