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NHL and NHLPA implement new collective bargaining agreement

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 8, 2026, 12:39 PM

Last updated Sep 8, 2026

NHL and NHLPA implement new collective bargaining agreement

Summary

The NHL and the NHLPA are set to begin a new collective bargaining agreement next week, lasting through September 2030. Training camps open September 16 with significant adjustments to preseason operations, including a reduction from 20 to 13 days for experienced players. Preseason games will be limited to four per team, while the regular season expands to 84 games. New rules also require every club to employ a full-time emergency backup goaltender who meets specific professional experience requirements. Additionally, teams gain flexibility regarding top prospects, as first-round picks drafted from the Canadian Hockey League can now be assigned to the AHL at age 19. These labor updates follow a period of financial growth for the league, including increased franchise valuations.

Source Links

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Key Details

•The new collective bargaining agreement runs through September 2030.
•Training camps begin September 16 with a shortened 13-day schedule.
•The regular season increases to 84 games as the preseason schedule shrinks.
•Each club must now employ a designated, full-time emergency backup goaltender.
•First-round CHL draft picks may now play in the AHL at age 19.

Latest Updates

12:39 PMYahoo Sports — Changes in the new NHL CBA

What they're saying

"
Timely enough off the heels of the Labor Day holiday yesterday, the NHL’s new collective bargaining agreement, the labor rules agreed to by the NHL and the NHLPA, kicks in next week. The new agreement is in place through September 2030, marking the second time in a row the two sides have put a deal […]
— Yahoo Sports

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