NHL, NHLPA Approve CBA With 84-Game Season

The NHL and NHLPA have ratified a new collective bargaining agreement extending through the 2029-30 season, expanding the regular season to 84 games and introducing a playoff salary cap. The agreement also raises minimum salaries, increases the playoff fund, and shortens maximum contract terms to seven years for re-signings and six for new signings. Preseason schedules will be reduced, the mandatory dress code is eliminated, and a full-time traveling goaltender will now accompany teams, ending the era of emergency backup goalies. Draft rights are standardized, changes to long-term injured reserve rules are enacted, and new restrictions apply to third-team salary retention in trades. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman and NHLPA executive director Marty Walsh have both praised the deal, saying it ensures labor peace and advances the sport's global profile. The agreement takes effect starting with the 2026-27 season.