EDMONTON — NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has expressed optimism regarding the ongoing negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) between the league and the NHL Players` Association (NHLPA).
Speaking ahead of Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final rematch between the Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers, Bettman stated that the current discussions are far more positive than previous CBA negotiations, emphasizing that there is `no comparison` to past talks.
He specifically praised NHLPA executive director Marty Walsh for the `very constructive, professional, and cordial dialogue` during the negotiation process. However, Bettman noted that no formal agreement was ready to be announced on Wednesday.
The existing CBA, which was extended during the financially uncertain period of the COVID-19 pandemic, is scheduled to conclude on September 15, 2026.
This positive sentiment surrounding the discussions is a welcome sign for hockey fans, who have witnessed past labor disputes lead to significant disruptions, including the cancellation of the entire 2004-05 season due to a lockout and shortened seasons in 1994-95 and 2012-13.
In related news, the NHL is planning its return to the Olympics in Italy next year. Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly indicated that the league does not anticipate the International Olympic Committee or the International Ice Hockey Federation lifting the ban on Russian teams. Consequently, Russian NHL players are expected to miss the upcoming Games, which will be the first since 2014 to feature top NHL talent, due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
