NHL Labor Talks Set to Open During Unprecedented Growth and Stability

The National Hockey League’s labor deal with the NHL Players’ Association doesn’t expire for nearly two years. But talks on a new collective bargaining agreement are set to open soon, and the two sides will do so in a period of historic strength for the sport.

NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said following board of governors’ meetings this week in New York that talks will open toward an agreement to succeed the current one expiring in September 2026. The league and union last reached a labor deal in July 2020, while dealing with the depths of the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, the NHLPA has transitioned from former executive director Donald Fehr to current leader Marty Walsh. But as the sport enjoyed record attendance and historically strong ratings last year, serious friction is likely to be minimal. 

“In terms of the relationship, we think we’re in a good place,” Bettman said. 

To that end, Bettman said the salary cap for the 2025–2026 season could jump to $92.5 million, a 5% jump from the current $88 million, though the commissioner called that projection “way, way, way, way preliminary.” A $4.5 million jump, if it happens, would equal the increase from last season to the new one starting this week. 

Issues on the Table

In addition to the core economic framework of the league, the two sides will consider a potential reduction of the preseason schedule to expand the current 82-game regular season, not unlike what the NFL is now evaluating. An NHL schedule expansion would also help facilitate more regional rivalry games. 

There isn’t a specific timetable to reach a new labor deal, beyond the obvious expiration of the current pact. But Bettman said he is loosely targeting June 2025 to reach an agreement.

“If we had it done by media availability at the Stanley Cup Final, everybody would be very happy,” Bettman said. “But that’s not a discussion, in terms of timetable, I’ve had with Marty Walsh, so I don’t want to put any unfair parameters on it. It’ll be what it’ll be, but I think based on the status of our relationship, this will be fine.”

That tone remains a massive change from three prior lockouts in Bettman’s tenure, including a dispute that wiped out the entire 2004–2005 season.