NHL unveils changes ahead of 2026-27 season with new CBA, roster rules
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 18, 2026, 12:13 PM
Last updated Sep 18, 2026
The NHL prepares for the 2026-27 season featuring significant changes, including a new four-year CBA, an expanded 84-game schedule, and a salary cap exceeding $100 million. Notable off-ice developments include updated player dress codes and mandatory neck protection for debuting players. Teams face stricter roster management rules as the preseason is reduced to four games and a new full-time Emergency Backup Goaltender role is established. These factors signal a dynamic shift in NHL operations and culture.
- •The NHL salary cap surpasses $100 million for the first time.
- •Each team must employ a full-time Emergency Backup Goaltender.
- •Players debuting in the NHL must wear cut-resistant neck protection.
- •Preseason is limited to four games under the new CBA.
- •Minimum salary increases to $850,000 in 2026-27.
- 12:13 PMYahoo Sports — Top 10 storylines heading into 2026-27 NHL season
"The 2026-27 NHL season brings a new CBA, 84-game slate, salary-cap changes and crucial stories around Connor McDavid and Alexander Ovechkin
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