The National Hockey League Board of Governors and the National Hockey League Players` Association members have officially approved a four-year extension to their Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), securing the agreement through the 2029-30 season. Both organizations made the announcement on Tuesday, stating that further details regarding the agreement will be disclosed later.
This ratification follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding by the NHL and NHLPA on June 27 in Los Angeles, which had made the approval process largely anticipated.
Set to take effect in the 2026-27 season, the new agreement is widely expected to introduce an 84-game regular season, an increase from the current 82 games. Reports also indicate potential changes such as a reduction in the maximum contract term by one year and the implementation of a salary cap specifically for the playoffs.
Both the league and the union described the negotiation process for the new CBA as remarkably positive, marking a significant departure from the historically contentious labor relations that have plagued the sport and resulted in multiple work stoppages, including the cancellation of the entire 2004-05 season due to a lockout.
“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 in a statement. “We are grateful to the Board of Governors for its support of this agreement that strengthens our game and ensures we are collectively delivering a great fan experience in the years to come.”
NHLPA Executive Director Marty Walsh had previously expressed satisfaction with the four-year duration of the CBA, noting that a shorter term allows more players to participate in the bargaining process compared to a lengthier agreement.
In a statement, Walsh said, “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.” He concluded, “We could not have achieved this outcome without the involvement and support of our players.”
Neville Woodall