Exploring the Feasibility of an 84-Game NHL Season

The National Hockey League (NHL) remains the cornerstone of professional ice hockey in North America, a league that has seen its landscape evolve with each passing season. This evolution often includes discussions about schedule expansion, particularly when new teams are added to the roster. One such discussion revolves around the potential implementation of an 84-game regular season in lieu of the traditional 82-game schedule. However, this topic is not without controversy, as it touches on crucial aspects of team travel, player workload, and labor relations.

The Current 82-Game Format

The NHL has maintained the 82-game regular season format since the 1995-1996 season. This format, which remains in place despite the addition of the Seattle Kraken in the 2021-2022 season, ensures a balance between competitive gameplay and logistical requirements for teams and players. The format includes a schedule with 6 games against divisional opponents, 3 games against non-divisional opponents within the conference, and 2 games against the opposing conference.

Proposed 84-Game Schedule

Some propose an 84-game schedule, which would consist of 6 games against divisional opponents, 3 games against non-divisional conference opponents, and 2 games against the opposing conference. This would be a significant change, as the current format results in only 82 games. Proponents of the 84-game schedule argue that it would provide teams with more gameplay against all types of opponents, potentially enhancing the competitiveness of the league.

Obstacles to Schedule Expansion

The NHL and its players union (NHLPA) are currently bound by the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) that ended the owner's lockout in 2012. According to the CBA, the NHL season is 82 games. Any changes to the schedule require renegotiation of the CBA, a process that is subject to mutual agreement and cannot be unilaterally modified. The players have already committed to a 82-game season, and extending it to 84 games would be equivalent to them working extra hours without additional compensation.

Historical Context and Future Considerations

The NHL has shown flexibility in adjusting its schedule in the past. Between 1991-1992 and 1994-1995, the league experimented with different formats, including an 80-game season and an 84-game season. The 84-game format was used to promote the NHL and the game of hockey through neutral-site games. However, the lockout in 1994-1995 shortened the season to just 48 games, and starting with the 1995-1996 season, all teams were required to play 82 games under the terms of the new CBA.

In light of the ongoing impact of the pandemic, it remains to be seen how the NHL will adjust its schedule for the next season. Many suggest that the 82-game format will remain unchanged for the foreseeable future. However, there are arguments that the league should consider varying the schedule to accommodate different seasons, such as Olympic years or special events, by reducing the number of games to 76 and skipping the All-Star break.

Conclusion: The Unlikely Future of a 84-Game NHL Season

In conclusion, while the concept of an 84-game schedule is intriguing, the NHL is unlikely to implement it on a permanent basis. The current CBA, the burden on players, and the historical context of the 82-game format all point towards maintaining the status quo. Nevertheless, the league may adopt a more flexible approach in certain years to meet the demands of special events or unique circumstances. The 82-game format, as it currently stands, remains a hallmark of the NHL's commitment to maintaining a balance between competitive and logistical considerations.