The NHL Is Set To Have A Massive Expansion Within The Next Few Years

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Hunter Bowman
December 5, 2023 (11:46)

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The NHL has witnessed remarkable success with the inclusion of the Seattle Kraken>/b> and Vegas Golden Knights, both experiencing significant franchise value growth in the last three years. While the league has been hesitant about committing to further expansion, reports suggest they are exploring various locations and potential ownership groups. Commissioner Gary Bettman has indicated that expansion will happen when it makes sense, offering a vague timeline. However, player agent Allan Walsh believes it could occur within the next two years.

Walsh highlights a crucial factor driving this ambitious timeline�the expiration of the NHL collective bargaining agreement (CBA) by the end of the 2025-26 season. According to Walsh, the urgency stems from the current CBA, which allocates the entire expansion revenue to NHL owners, leaving players with no share.

Walsh emphasizes, «There are $2 billion reasons why NHL expansion is happening soon." The NHL Players Association's new Director is determined to secure a portion of expansion revenue for the players, prompting owners to seek deals before players can negotiate a cut.

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Amidst rising franchise values and a salary cap set to increase by approximately $4 million next season, concerns about a potential work stoppage loom if a mutual agreement isn't reached. The disparity between escalating franchise values and a stagnant salary cap raises questions about the future and the likelihood of negotiations becoming a focal point, with player compensation taking center stage.

Previously on HockeyUnplugged
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The NHL Announces Increased Salary Cap Projection for 2024-2025 Season
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POLL
DECEMBRE 5 | 245 ANSWERS
The NHL Is Set To Have A Massive Expansion Within The Next Few Years
Do you think the NHL should be adding more teams?
Yes 87 35.5 %
No 158 64.5 %
List of polls

POLL
DECEMBRE 5 \| 245 ANSWERS The NHL Is Set To Have A Massive Expansion Within The Next Few Years Do you think the NHL should be adding more teams?
Yes	87	35.5 %
No	158	64.5 %
List of polls