Concerns about a possible future lockout have NHL players negotiating better contracts

It's been a long time ago since the NHL had any concerns about the Collective Bargaining Agreement, but as 2025-26 gets closer, players are preparing for the worst.

The rebound from the COVID years has not been the greatest for the NHL, unlike other North American sports teams. So, there is a possibility for a fight when it comes down to revenue sharing. But there is one aspect that seems to be apparent that could mean NHL players are getting ready in case it does come to a lockout.

Signing bonus can cause issues to teams when it comes to buyouts for roster building. But for players, including a signing bonus in their contract offers them the protection of a salary if things do go south with the CBA.

The percentage of contracts with signing bonuses heading into the 2026 season jumps to near 80% over the prior and next year. Signing bonus are paid to the players who have them in the summer months prior to the season, which would be prior to any type of lockout situation. If there is a disruption because of CBA issues and a lockout does occur, players contracts and salaries are frozen during this time, so the signing bonus is guaranteeing money for them.

NHL teams use signing bonuses for top tier athletes to negotiate better contracts. It would allow for front offices to get another year or two from the player with a possible reduction in their cap hit.

If more players have these signing bonus, that eliminates an effective tool that the NHL would have against the NHLPA, the financial impact to the players.

No one wants to see a lockout happen to shorten a season in anyway, especially the fans. So, let's just hope this is all just preparation for something that never happens.

As Read On: TSN - NHL players preparing for labour uncertainty with lockout-protected contracts

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