New NHL CBA Contains Interesting Addition

One of the highlights of the NHL's offseason is the agreement between the owners and the NHL Players Association on a new Collective Bargaining Agreement. Although the current CBA isn't set to expire until September 2026, the two sides finalized the framework of the new deal over a year before a potential work stoppage might have occurred. With both sides ratifying the new CBA, NHL action is guaranteed through the 2029-2030 season.

While the new CBA's Memorandum of Understanding has not been fully released, one clause within the agreement is causing considerable concern. Multiple insiders have reported that a notable change is forthcoming in the NHL's new operating guide.

In another step in the direction of updating and reevaluating the path from prospect to NHL player, the league is lowering the minimum age requirement to play in the American Hockey League (AHL). Previously, players had to be 20 years old to play in the AHL, but under a new provision in the CBA, organizations will be able to place one 19-year-old player with their affiliate per season. NHL insider Frank Seravalli outlined what he heard about the new rule via his social media.

"Sources say a new provision in the CBA will allow each NHL team to place one 19-year-old CHL player in the AHL per season," he wrote. "One per organization per season and 18-year-olds are ineligible. Begins in 2026-27 season."