Discussions are happening between the NHL and its players organization regarding the possibility of implementing an 84-game regular season, according to reports from Greg Wyshynski and Kevin Weekes of ESPN. This alteration to the schedule is being considered within the framework of ongoing collective bargaining agreement talks involving the NHL and the NHLPA. It’s conceivable that the adjustment could be put into practice once the next CBA becomes effective after Sept. 15, 2026.
Should an agreement be reached to increase the schedule by a pair of games, it would signify a return to the 84-game structure that was in place for a short period from 1992 until 1994. Under that arrangement, each team incorporated two games played at neutral venues into their yearly schedule. It is not immediately apparent how the NHL might utilize the 83rd and 84th games if the schedule is expanded, but there have been reports of certain franchises expressing concerns about an imbalanced distribution of games against division competitors.
An overview of NHL wagering for 2025: Key aspects to consider
Austin Nivison
According to the ESPN report, the concept of expanding the schedule has been circulating within the NHL for several seasons. The potential 84-game schedule could entail changes to the existing arrangement, in which each team faces every other team a minimum of once and engages in four contests against divisional opponents.
The NHLPA has reportedly expressed apprehensions regarding the potential “physical strain” resulting from an extended schedule. In response, it is anticipated that the NHL might shorten the duration of the preseason schedule if the 84-game model gains approval.
NHL commissioner Gary Bettman stated earlier in the month that negotiations surrounding the CBA are progressing in a “very positive manner,” but he did not provide a specific timeline for when the parties might reach an agreement. NHLPA executive director Marty Walsh added that the discussions have been constructive and that no major disagreements have surfaced. Negotiations commenced in April, and the parties have over a year to finalize the details before the current CBA expires.
Other matters reportedly being taken into account during the CBA discussions encompass adjustments to the permitted length of contracts, the abolishment of deferred-salary contracts, the institution of a permanent EBUG (an emergency backup goaltender who is not on the roster), modifications to revenue-sharing arrangements, and alterations to eligibility criteria for particular draft selections.
However, Bettman opted not to disclose on Wednesday what might be featured in the new CBA. He also conveyed that the league is not actively involved in conversations about introducing additional expansion teams, emphasizing that “we do not have any outstanding applications, nor are we planning to initiate a formal process currently.” The commissioner noted that the NHL and its board of governors are also assessing the league’s global endeavors, including the anticipated revival of the World Cup of Hockey and prospective future All-Star events.
