Over the past week, the NHL and NHLPA have been working tirelessly to take the next steps towards not only getting back on the ice to finish the 2019-20 season but to also map out the framework for the next few seasons. The largest part of those negotiations has been centered around modifications to the Collective Bargaining Agreement that would account for changes in the future financial landscape of the league.
Like with most aspects of the business world, the COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on any financial projections the NHL had for the coming years. A lack of ticket sales and a shortened schedule will result in revenues being a fraction of what was expected - meaning the players’ salaries already paid for this season are significantly higher than the 50% split mandated by the current CBA.