Latest report from TSN puts 2026 NHL season in lockout jeopardy

The NHL's current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) is scheduled to expire after the 2025-26 season, and initial indications point to a potentially long negotiation process ahead. Despite a period of relative stability for the league since the abbreviated 2012-13 season, both the NHL and the Players' Association are anticipated to enter into a period of tense negotiations.

A significant advantage for players this time around is their enhanced preparation, particularly through the strategic use of signing bonuses. Drawing from past lessons, players are now using these bonuses as a safeguard against potential contract buyouts.

Signing bonuses provide vital protection as they are typically paid out during the off-season, ensuring that players receive this money before any potential disruptions from stalled or delayed CBA negotiations. Consequently, in the event of a delayed or interrupted season due to a lack of a new CBA, players with substantial signing bonuses won't be impacted by financial hardship when compared to other players who don't receive much of a signing bonus.

Fans are really hoping to avoid a recurrence of the 2004 lockout, which resulted in the entire season being canceled.

Source: TSN
NHL players preparing for labour uncertainty with lockout-protected contracts