NHL Plans Full-Time Emergency Goalies Under New CBA for 2026-27

The NHL's emergency backup goaltender (EBUG) program, known for its rare and legendary moments such as David Ayres' win over the Toronto Maple Leafs and Scott Foster's perfect save record for Chicago, is set to undergo significant changes starting in the 2026-27 season under the new collective bargaining agreement. The new rules require each team to employ a full-time, traveling EBUG who must be designated 48 hours before the season starts and 24 hours before each game, replacing the previous model where EBUGs were often local amateurs called from the stands. Criteria for EBUG eligibility have been established, including restrictions on prior NHL games played and professional hockey experience. While this move aims to modernize the role, many in the EBUG community express nostalgia and disappointment as the unique and beloved aspect of emergency backups is coming to an end. Both Ayres and Foster acknowledge the inevitability of change but appreciate their rare opportunities to play, highlighting the rarity of EBUG appearances—only six times in over 13,000 games in the past decade. The shift reflects evolving team needs and professional standards but marks the close of a distinctive hockey tradition.