Hockey enthusiasts are set to enjoy an extended NHL regular season, featuring two additional games.
Sources have confirmed that the upcoming collective bargaining agreement (CBA) between the league and the players` association includes a provision to lengthen the regular season to 84 contests.
Consequently, the pre-season schedule will be reduced from the current six to eight games down to just four.
According to a report by Sportsnet`s Elliotte Friedman on Wednesday, the NHL and NHLPA are nearing consensus on a new agreement.
An Associated Press source indicated that this change could be implemented as early as the 2026-27 season.
Earlier in the year, the league and the union revealed salary cap projections for the next three seasons, showing a substantial increase in the cap ceiling.
Friedman also noted other potential items being discussed, such as revenue sharing, discontinuing deferred-salary contracts, limiting the maximum term for contracts, and establishing a permanent role for an emergency backup goaltender.
Chris Johnston and Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic have reported that an announcement regarding a new deal might come as soon as Friday.
