Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly discussed a series of topics in an interview with Pierre LeBrun of the Athleticincluding ongoing expansion talks, updates on a possible collective bargaining agreement extension and his thoughts on the current playoff format.
LeBrun’s first question was about the CBA, which the league and NHLPA began discussing in April. Although the current CBA does not expire until September 2026, Daly was asked if any progress was being made on a possible extension. Daly acknowledged that discussions were ongoing and progressing well, with both sides actively exchanging proposals and continuing the dialogue.
“I don’t have a timetable for you, but I would like to think that we will reach a positive conclusion at some point in the not too distant future.” » said Daly.
Daly added that as part of the CBA negotiations, both sides are discussing solutions to the current LTIR regulations and no salary cap during the playoffs. As Daly said, “Nothing’s done until it’s done, but I will tell you that I think we’ve made progress toward reaching a good resolution on this issue.”
As rumors swirled about potential expansion teams in Atlanta (for the third time) or Houston, LeBrun asked Daly if it would be fair to say the league is actively engaged in the expansion process. Although Daly said the answer depends on how one defines the “expansion process,” he stressed that the league is always open to the idea if the right opportunity presents itself.
As Daly noted, “I think what Gary (Bettman) is clear is that there is currently no intention to open a formal expansion process and invite offers. It’s much more of a one-on-one conversation and relationship that we have with different potential owners.
Daly added that he doesn’t believe adding expansion teams would “dilute” the league, emphasizing that the global pool of elite talent is strong enough to support more NHL clubs. Daly said he shared those concerns when four expansion teams were added in the late 1990s, but added that the hockey world has changed dramatically over the past 25 years, with more elite players coming from the United States and overseas than ever before.
Daly also touched on the current playoff format, which, as LeBrun notes, allows for key matchups like Colorado vs. Dallas in the first round. Daly acknowledged that, like any topic, the NHL is open to discussing alternatives to the playoff format with the NHLPA as part of the CBA process, but noted that no such discussion has yet taken place.
