In an intriguing development for the future of the NHL, the league and the NHL Players’ Association (NHLPA) are discussing the possibility of shortening the maximum player contract term from 8 years to 5 years.
This potential shift in the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) has sparked much debate, particularly among analysts and former players. TSN Radio 1050 recently hosted insider Chris Johnston and former NHL defenseman Carlo Colaiacovo, who both voiced their support for this change.
Would Shorter NHL Contracts Bring More Player Movement and Excitement?
Johnston argued that a shorter maximum contract length would benefit both the players and the excitement level within the league. More frequent contract renewals would lead to increased player movement, adding dynamism to the trade landscape and fueling trade rumors—an engaging prospect for NHL fans and rumor-focused sites.
In an example given on the show, Johnston cited Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid, who signed an 8-year deal at $12.5 million per year in 2018. If McDavid’s contract had been limited to 5 years, he would now likely command an annual salary closer to $14-$15 million. This kind of market shift could drive higher salaries for elite players in shorter intervals, allowing them to capture their peak value more consistently.
Colaiacovo agreed with this perspective, noting that shorter contracts could increase opportunities for players to leverage their performance for higher earnings. However, he acknowledged that not all players may be open to the increased uncertainty of shorter terms, preferring the security of an 8-year contract. Nevertheless, as a former player, Colaiacovo said he personally would have favored the flexibility a 5-year contract could offer, especially in today’s evolving NHL landscape.
While there’s still some time before the current CBA expires in two years, these conversations are setting the stage for a potential evolution in the way NHL contracts are structured. Johnston is optimistic that there won’t be a lockout, signaling that both sides could reach an agreement on this key issue. Whether or not shorter contract terms become the new norm, it’s clear that the NHL is considering all options to make the league more competitive and financially rewarding for its players.
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