The NHL and its Players’ Association officially ratified their four-year Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) on Tuesday in a deal that will guarantee labor peace through the 2029-30 season.
“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. We are grateful to the Board of Governors for its support of this agreement, which strengthens our game and ensures we are collectively delivering a great fan experience in the years to come.”
Among the notable agreements expected to be included in the deal between the NHL and NHLPA are an 84-game regular season, which would extend its current format by two games, shorter player contracts, and a playoff cap that would withhold teams from circumventing the rules to load up their rosters for postseason play — a tactic that has been employed most notably by the Vegas Golden Knights and Tampa Bay Lightning.
“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,” NHLPA executive director Marty Walsh said. “This is a win for everyone. We could not have achieved this outcome without the involvement and support of our players. Special thanks to our executive board and negotiating committee.”
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