Usually, when the NHL/NHLPA collective bargaining agreement expires, it takes a lockout for the two sides to agree on a new one. But this time, they got it done early.

As always, a new CBA brings a plethora of changes.

NHL insider Frank Seravalli reported on Tuesday morning that the NHL and NHLPA have agreed to implement most of these changes to start the 2025-26 season, even though the new CBA doesn’t take effect until 2026-27.

It’s not yet clear exactly which ones will start early, though Seravalli mentioned the playoff salary cap, dress codes and player endorsement possibilities as things that will change. The new contract structures won’t start until September 2026.

Here are some of the biggest adjustments the new CBA will bring.

84-game schedule, reduced preseason

Having more

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