NHL, NHLPA ratify 4-year collective bargaining agreement, extends through 2029-30 season

The NHL and National Hockey League Players’ Association ratified a four-year collective bargaining agreement, with the new agreement extending through the 2029-30 season.

There was a year remaining on the existing agreement, but labour peace has been achieved by both parties, with the threat of an imminent lockout completely nullified.

“The partnership between the Players’ Association and the League is stronger than it ever has been and working together under this agreement presents a fantastic opportunity to continue to grow the game,” NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said in a league-issued statement. “We are grateful to the Board of Governors for its support of this agreement that strengthens our game and ensures we are collectively delivering a great fan experience in the years to come.

“This CBA shows what can be accomplished when the NHL and the Union work together – an agreement that will allow for the continued worldwide growth of the game. That is a win for everyone,” NHLPA executive director Marty Walsh said. “We could not have achieved this outcome without the involvement and support of our players. Special thanks to our Executive Board and Negotiating Committee.”

Key details of the new agreement reportedly include an 84-game regular season which begins for the 2026-27 campaign. This will also include a shortened preseason, where teams will play a maximum of four games, while players with over 100 career games cannot play in greater than two preseason contests.

Another details reportedly include a maximum term of seven years for player contracts with their current club, with a maximum term of six years for players signing contracts with new teams in free agency. The revenue split between the players and owners will remain at 50-50, while the salary cap will rise to $95.5 million, then $104 million and $113 million in the following years. For more details on the proposed framework, Daily Faceoff has a comprehensive analysis.

An official memorandum of understanding is expected to be released shortly, the NHL and NHLPA announced in their joint statement.