EDMONTON, Alberta – NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman announced Wednesday that collective bargaining talks between the NHL and the NHLPA have been "constructive, professional, and cordial." However, no immediate announcement was made regarding a new agreement prior to the Stanley Cup Final between the Florida Panthers and the Edmonton Oilers. Bettman stated that the negotiations began later than anticipated due to various factors on both sides, preventing a deal from being finalized at this time. He indicated that there is still over a year remaining in the current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which expires on September 15, 2026. The in-depth negotiations didn’t commence until April, deviatng from the originally planned timeline. Bettman had previously expressed optimism about a potential agreement before the Cup Final. The ongoing discussions center around key issues such as the utilization of the long-term injured reserve as a strategic approach to managing the salary cap – a significant priority for the league. NHLPA Assistant Executive Director Ron Hainsey confirmed this as a central topic of conversation. Despite these advancements, certain contentious issues are unlikely to be addressed within the framework of this new CBA. Specifically, the disparity in state income tax advantages enjoyed by teams like the Florida Panthers, Tampa Bay Lightning, Dallas Stars, and Vegas Golden Knights, compared to other teams, particularly those in Canada, remains a point of contention. NHLPA representative Daly emphasized that these imbalances have persisted for a long time and that numerous factors beyond tax considerations influence player choices regarding team and location. He asserted that proactively addressing these disparities is not a planned element of the current CBA negotiations. The league’s Wednesday news conference also highlighted the potential for expansion to 34 teams in the near future. Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly confirmed that the league has not formally initiated the expansion process but is accepting applications from interested parties. Numerous markets, including Houston and Atlanta, have been heavily speculated as potential expansion cities, generating considerable interest among prospective ownership groups. The league is actively engaged in meetings with these groups, evaluating their applications and presenting them to the Board of Governors for consideration. While specific timelines remain unclear, the ongoing dialogue reflects a proactive approach to future growth and expansion within the NHL. The focus remains on fostering a positive and productive relationship between the league and the players’ union, paving the way for a stable and successful future for both organizations and the sport of hockey. Continued collaboration and open communication are crucial as the league navigates these complex negotiations, aiming to create a sustainable and competitive environment for all teams and players involved.