Hockey enthusiasts can look forward to an extended National Hockey League regular season, featuring two additional games.
According to sources who confirmed the information, the upcoming collective bargaining agreement (CBA) between the league and the NHL Players` Association includes a provision to expand the regular season schedule from 82 to 84 games.
In correlation with this change, the pre-season schedule is expected to be reduced. It will be shortened to four games, a decrease from the current six to eight exhibition contests.
Sportsnet`s Elliotte Friedman reported on Wednesday that negotiations between the NHL and NHLPA regarding the new agreement are progressing well and nearing a resolution.
An Associated Press source indicated that this revised schedule format could potentially be implemented starting with the 2026-27 season.
Earlier in the year, the league and the union jointly announced their salary cap projections for the next three seasons, signaling a substantial increase in the upper limit.
Friedman also noted that other topics under discussion as part of the CBA negotiations include revenue sharing, the potential elimination of contracts with deferred salary payments, shortening the maximum term length for player contracts, and the formal creation of a permanent emergency backup goaltender position.
Reporters Chris Johnston and Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic have suggested that an official announcement regarding a new deal could potentially come as early as Friday.