The NHL and the NHL Players' Association are in discussions regarding potentially increasing the regular season from 82 to 84 games, motivated by franchise concerns over divisional game imbalances. The additional two games would maintain the current format while allowing for more divisional matchups, which generally attract larger audiences. To counterbalance the extended schedule, reductions in preseason games are anticipated. Players are wary of increased physical strain, posing challenges as both sides work toward finalizing their collective bargaining agreement before its expiration in September 2026.
The NHL and NHL Players' Association are negotiating a potential increase to an 84-game regular season during their collective bargaining agreement talks.
It is expected the NHL would reduce the number of preseason games to compensate for the additional two regular-season games.
There is some concern on the players' side about "wear and tear" from two additional regular-season games.
An expanded regular season is one of several issues being negotiated in the CBA talks.
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