Hockey enthusiasts can anticipate two additional games being added to the NHL`s regular season schedule.
As confirmed by sources familiar with the matter, the regular season is slated to be extended to 84 games. This change is being implemented as part of the new collective bargaining agreement currently being negotiated between the league and the National Hockey League Players` Association.
Consequently, the pre-season will see a reduction in games, decreasing from the current range of six to eight exhibitions down to just four.
Reports suggest that the NHL and NHLPA are reportedly nearing final terms on an agreement.
Sources indicate that this potential schedule adjustment could take effect beginning with the 2026-27 season.
Earlier this year, the league and the players` union jointly revealed their projections for the salary cap over the next three years, which forecast a significant rise in the upper limit.
Among other issues reportedly under discussion during the CBA negotiations are modifications to revenue sharing, the potential discontinuation of deferred-salary contracts, limitations on the maximum length of player contracts, and the establishment of a formalized role for a permanent emergency backup goaltender.
An announcement regarding a new agreement is potentially imminent and could occur as soon as Friday.
