Done Deal!

[Max Power]

NHL, NHLPA reach tentative deal


TSN.ca Staff



7/13/2005 12:32:11 PM

And now for the words everyone has been waiting to hear: The deal is done!

The NHL and NHL Players' Association have finally reached an agreement (pending ratification) on a new six-year collective bargaining agreement that - if approved by the NHL board of governors next Thursday and the rank and file membership of the NHLPA next Tuesday - will officially end the stalemate sometime next week.

The agreement, a complex document reportedly numbering more than 600 pages, came after the two sides staged marathon negotiating sessions for nine consecutive days. Since the 2004-05 NHL season was officially cancelled on Feb. 16, the league and union have met on 82 occasions, leading to an agreement that will revamp the way the entire professional hockey industry conducts its business.

The league went into this lockout, which started on Sept. 15, 2004, seeking cost certainty and believes it has achieved that with a new economic system from top to bottom.

It is expected both the NHL and NHLPA will move to ratify the agreement within the next seven days, with a formal announcement on July 21. During that time, it is expected the new CBA will be distributed to all in the hockey industry so they can begin getting themselves up to speed on a myriad of new rules and regulations.

Among the most significant are:

- a hard team-by-team salary cap with a payroll of range of $21 million to $39 million (in the first year), which includes all player costs (benefits, insurance etc).

- the league's total expenditure on player costs (salaries, bonuses, benefits and insurance) is not permitted to exceed 54 per cent of defined hockey-related revenue and the salary cap and payroll range will move up or down as revenues increase or decrease each year of the deal.

- a 24 per-cent salary rollback for any NHL player who has time remaining on an existing contract, keeping in mind that the players will receive none of the monies they were slated to earn in the lost season of 2004-05.

- liberalized free agency (including unrestricted status at 27 by year four of the deal), a more restrictive entry level system, totally revamped salary arbitration, improved pension benefits and a revenue-sharing plan.

This agreement (pending ratification) will kick off the most bizarre and busiest off-season in NHL history after the league became the first major professional loop to lose an entire year to labour strife.

As tutorials are conducted to allow NHL owners, general managers, NHL players and player agents to understand the new economic order, plans are already in the works for the two ratification votes.

The NHL board of governors is expected to convene in New York City some time next week. And the NHLPA is expected to call a membership meeting in Toronto for around the same time.

NHL commissioner Gary Bettman will be recommending acceptance of this agreement to the governors, so a simple majority of the league's 30-man ruling body will be enough to ratify it.

It's also expected the NHLPA's executive committee, led by president Trevor Linden, will be endorsing the deal, which means a simple majority of the NHLPA's more than 700 members will be enough to make it binding. For those players who cannot physically make it to the membership meeting, the vote will be conducted through the NHLPA's secure website, The Source.

Assuming both groups ratify, the NHL is expected to begin a brief transition period before the league fully re-opens for business.

But before teams and players start to concern themselves with the specifics of transition - such as the buying out of some players to allow teams to meet cap requirements or the attempted signing of 2003 and 2004 draft picks who would re-enter the 2005 entry draft if not signed - the league is expected to unveil significant changes to the game, on and off the ice.

Because no season was played in 2004-05, there is no order of selection for the 2005 entry draft, which is tentatively scheduled to take place as a scaled-down event in Ottawa on July 30. Usually, teams draft in inverse order of finish from the recently-concluded season, but this time there will be a weighted draft lottery (with the teams who have fared poorest over the last few years to get marginally better odds than those who fared well) to determine who gets the first overall pick and the right to pick young phenom Sidney Crosby. That lottery is scheduled to take place on July 21 when the NHL is expected to formally announce the new CBA.

In addition to that major business, the NHL is also expected to unveil significant rule changes aimed at making the game more exciting and fan friendly, including shootouts to end tie games and the removal of the red line for the purpose of allowing two-line passes.

While the regular season will remain at 82 games long for each team, the format of that schedule may be altered, along with a potential expansion of the NHL playoffs from 16 to 20 teams.

Once the NHL's formal news conference is put to bed, along with the lottery and rule changes, the brief transition period should unfold in order to take care of the loose ends from the expired CBA. At some point, the NHL will declare itself open for business and NHL teams will be sorting through a huge pool of unrestricted free agents as many teams make themselves over from the ground up.

Whether it is the brave new world the NHL hopes, remains to be seen, but the level of activity and uncertainty will be higher than at any other time in league history.

For now, though, the only thing that matters in the short term is this: The deal (pending ratification) is done.

[Max Power]

I guess we really didn't need another thread since we already have 10 of them...
But at least this one is for real :nod:

[Mel]

Yup it's on NHL.com's home page

NHL, PA have deal in principle (http://www.nhl.com/)

:pimp:

http://www.nhlpa.com/ -->
TORONTO/NEW YORK (July 13, 2005): The National Hockey League and the National Hockey League Players' Association have reached an agreement in principle on the terms of a new Collective Bargaining Agreement. Details of the new Agreement will not be made available publicly pending the formal ratification process by NHLPA Members and the NHL Board of Governors. It is anticipated that the ratification process will be completed next week, at which time the parties will be prepared to discuss the details of the Agreement and plans for next season. No further comment will be made until then.

[Newfie John]

YAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAYAYAYAYAYYAYAYAYAYAYAYYAYAYAYAYAY AYYAYAYAYAYAYAYYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYA

Holy mother f*c* d**k sh@$ finally this piece of $%#@ lockout is f*$#in over!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!

YEAHAYAHAYEAHH

Party in Newfie Land tonight fella's! Get the JD's ready I'm gonna get TANKED.

:nod:

[Madferret]

We survived fellas.

*collapse*

[bluemeanie]

Hockey's that sport where they throw sandbags at eachother while riding donkeys, right?... I just can't seem to remember anymore.

[Mel]

I'll stick this one for now so we have a set place to talk about the new CBA.


I have a feeling the rumors and signings forum may get busy over the next few months

:nod:

[Leafs_Fa_Life]

FINALLY!!!!!!!!

Now a summer full of free agent signings and trades :nod:

btw, what happened to the escrow tax :confused:

[J.R.]

It's about :curse: time.

Now let's get a schedule created, let's get Todd Bertuzzi reinstated, let's get the free agents signed, let's get those cheesy hats made for Bob and Gary. Let's go, let's go, let's go!

Well put, Ferret! Game on, boys! Whoo, salary cap!

:thumb:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v186/jrthesportsczar/Gameon.jpg

[swflyers25]

http://www.lakecitybaptist.net/alleluia%20pic.gif

Best news ever.... :nod:

[Newfie John]

The draft lottery formula has been determined.

Each team starts with 3 balls.
Take away a ball for each time a team made the playoffs in the last 3 years, however the minimum amount of balls a team can have is 1.
Also take away a ball for each time a team has had the first overall pick.

[J.R.]

Best news ever.... :nod:I agree. Now, since they're unsigned, let's get Carter and Richards back in the draft.

The draft lottery formula has been determined.

Each team starts with 3 balls.
Take away a ball for each time a team made the playoffs in the last 3 years, however the minimum amount of balls a team can have is 1.
Also take away a ball for each time a team has had the first overall pick.I like it. EDM X 2. :thumb:

[Newfie John]

I agree. Now, since they're unsigned, let's get Carter and Richards back in the draft.

I like it. EDM X 2. :thumb:

Philly does have an alotted amount of time to resign Carter and Richards.

[Mel]

The draft lottery formula has been determined.

Each team starts with 3 balls.
Take away a ball for each time a team made the playoffs in the last 3 years, however the minimum amount of balls a team can have is 1.
Also take away a ball for each time a team has had the first overall pick.

source?

can we add balls for each time a team missed the playoffs over the past 10 years? ;)

[Max Power]

source?

can we add balls for each time a team missed the playoffs over the past 10 years? ;)

This was on sportsnet
What now?


The work has just begun for the NHL now that a new CBA has been sgreed upon.

Sportsnet.ca -- With an agreement now reached in principle, the next question is 'what now?'

With the new CBA believed to be a 600-page behemoth, the general managers will be scratching their heads for quite some time before they can even fully grasp the new agreement. Once that is figured out there will be many key points which need to be addressed before the new season can begin:

Some of the major challenges addressing the NHL, GMs and the players will be:

Free agents:
There are currently only 300 players signed to NHL contracts.

Releasing contracts:
As has been widely reported, if the new CBA allows for teams to buy out contracts for two-thirds of its value, GMs will need to decide which players will be released in hopes of reaching the new salary cap. Players such as Dallas's Bill Guerin ($6.8 million) and Toronto's Owen Nolan ($5.6 million) may find themselves joining the long list of free agents.

Signing draft picks:
Teams will need to sign quickly sign their draft picks from previous years. Philadelphia is a prime example. GM Bob Clarke has yet to come to terms with their 2003 draft picks Jeff Carter and Mike Richards. How long will he have before the two decide to re-enter the draft?

The Crosby Sweepstakes:
Where and when will the draft be held? And more importantly, how will the draft order be established? Being able to grab Sidney Crosby first overall may be enough for a struggling franchise to turn around its fortunes.

Who will retire?
Will aging veterans such as Mark Messier and Steve Yzerman decide to call it a career? After missing an entire year and the prospect of playing at a drastically reduced salary, some of the NHL's senior stars may decide to move on to greener pastures.

The fans:
With a new CBA in place, will this result in a lower ticket prices for the fans? And more importantly will the fans even care?

Top of Page

[J.R.]

source?I got it from Brent Wallace, who's right outside your window in New York City. He's reporting live for TSN's SportsCentre: Game On coverage.

[swflyers25]

I agree. Now, since they're unsigned, let's get Carter and Richards back in the draft.

Keep dreaming Oilerboy, you aren't getting those 2 studs! :laughing:

[Mel]

even got my official instant CBA update from NHL.com :pimp:
Dear NHL Fan,

The National Hockey League and the National Hockey League
Players' Association have reached an agreement in principle
on the terms of a new Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Details of the new Agreement will not be made available
publicly pending the formal ratification process by the
NHLPA Members and the NHL Board of Governors.

It is anticipated that the ratification process will be
completed next week, at which time the parties will be prepared
to discuss the details of the Agreement and plans for next season.

[Madferret]

As my old friend The Rover used to say...'I'm grinning like a butcher's dog...'

[PDO]

Keep dreaming Oilerboy, you aren't getting those 2 studs! :laughing:

As long as we keep Pouliot I'm just fine with that :).

It's about ****ing time! Lottery is set to be next Thursday. I'm sitting here at work (on lunch ;) ) with a big smile on my face.. just over a week from now.. YES! :D

Anyone wanna join me in the chat to celebrate? Assuming it works here ...

[J.R.]

I just thought of this. Today is the only day of the calendar year when there is absolutely nothing scheduled in the North American sporting world. Nothing. Every other day has an event or game going on, except the Wednesday after the MLB All Star game. I don't think this is a coincidence. The NHL and NHLPA must have chosen this date purposely. It's the best possible day, because there are no sports going on in the United States. If they did it yesterday, it would have been lost in the All Star game hype. If they would have announced it tommorow, it would have been overshadowed by the Red Sox/Yankees series beginning. ESPN may even lead with this on their SportsCentre. Americans, let us know if they do.

[KB in Kelowna]

I just thought of this. Today is the only day of the calendar year when there is absolutely nothing scheduled in the North American sporting world. Nothing. Every other day has an event or game going on, except the Wednesday after the MLB All Star game. I don't think this is a coincidence. The NHL and NHLPA must have chosen this date purposely. It's the best possible day, because there are no sports going on in the United States. If they did it yesterday, it would have been lost in the All Star game hype. If they would have announced it tommorow, it would have been overshadowed by the Red Sox/Yankees series beginning. ESPN may even lead with this on their SportsCentre. Americans, let us know if they do.

Remind you of an old trivia question for our collective past?

[Newfie John]

I just thought of this. Today is the only day of the calendar year when there is absolutely nothing scheduled in the North American sporting world. Nothing. Every other day has an event or game going on, except the Wednesday after the MLB All Star game. I don't think this is a coincidence. The NHL and NHLPA must have chosen this date purposely. It's the best possible day, because there are no sports going on in the United States. If they did it yesterday, it would have been lost in the All Star game hype. If they would have announced it tommorow, it would have been overshadowed by the Red Sox/Yankees series beginning. ESPN may even lead with this on their SportsCentre. Americans, let us know if they do.

Bob Mckenzie raised the point on TSN but he said according to his sources this was just a fortunate coincedence.

[Mel]

I'm sure it will be top story on Sports Center.

check ESPN's home page: http://espn.go.com/

[Max Power]

Yah like NJ said the media has been suggesting this since the weekend. I find it hard to believe it's just a coincidence

[J.R.]

Bob Mckenzie raised the point on TSN but he said according to his sources this was just a fortunate coincedence.This can't be a coincidence. It just can't be. Like I said, any other day and there's something else in sports to discuss in the United States. This day was strategically chosen to get the maximum amount of exposure down south. In Canada, any day is fine. Even if the Super Bowl was today, this would still be the number one story. But in the United States, the NHL needs all the coverage they can get as they enter their "new era."

[bluemeanie]

Coincidence? .... no

C-O-N-S-P-I-R-A-C-Y :conspire: me thinks.

[Leafs_Fa_Life]

I'm sure it will be top story on Sports Center.

check ESPN's home page: http://espn.go.com/

I just ranked my sports leagues on ESPN SportsNation. After you submit your ballot they show you the overall results, and as of now here's how they stand.

1)NFL
2)MLB
3)College FB
4)NHL
5)College bball
6)NBA
7)Golf
8)Soccer
9)Tennis
10)Boxing

We're ahead of bball on a poll done on an American website :thumb:

[Mel]

I dunno. After all there is four WNBA games slated for today. Maybe the announcement timing is not so good after all :conspire:

[Newfie John]

I just ranked my sports leagues on ESPN SportsNation. After you submit your ballot they show you the overall results, and as of now here's how they stand.

1)NFL
2)MLB
3)College FB
4)NHL
5)College bball
6)NBA
7)Golf
8)Soccer
9)Tennis
10)Boxing

We're ahead of bball on a poll done on an American website :thumb:

Wow.. how many votes? 4th place is definately best case scenario for the NHL in the US right now. To be ahead of College bball and the NBA is nothing short of shocking to me.

[Leafs_Fa_Life]

Wow.. how many votes? 4th place is definately best case scenario for the NHL in the US right now. To be ahead of College bball and the NBA is nothing short of shocking to me.

Not sure, they don't say how many. Maybe the poll just opened and a lot of hockey people have voted so far :laughing:

[KB in Kelowna]

Is it just me, but I am rather underwhelmed by today's announcement. I suppose when I see people skating again I might get a little more enthused.

[The Insider]

My thoughts summed out in 4 words:

Took Them Long Enough :thumb:

[slapshot™]

Is it just me, but I am rather underwhelmed by today's announcement. I suppose when I see people skating again I might get a little more enthused.

I agree.

[Canucklehead]

I just ranked my sports leagues on ESPN SportsNation. After you submit your ballot they show you the overall results, and as of now here's how they stand.

1)NFL
2)MLB
3)College FB
4)NHL
5)College bball
6)NBA
7)Golf
8)Soccer
9)Tennis
10)Boxing

We're ahead of bball on a poll done on an American website :thumb:

I just wrote it.

1) NFL
2) MLB
3) College FB :rolleyes:
4) College BB
5) NHL
6) NBA
7) Golf
8) Soccer
9) Tennis
10) Boxing
11) Auto Racing
12) Action Sports
13) Horse Racing
14) Softball
15) Bowling
16) WNBA

Hockey remains ahead of NBA.

[capebretoncanadien]

game on, couldn't be happier, if only those schmucks didn't waste a whole season to wait and take a deal that was much less attractive than the one offered way back when

[Max Power]

Rumors are that Bob G wasn?t even present during some of these final sessions. Pierre M was on Team 1200 saying he even attended the MLB All Star game rather then taking part in these meetings. Me think Bob and the players may not be getting along =]

[bluemeanie]

Rumors are that Bob G wasn?t even present during some of these final sessions. Pierre M was on Team 1200 saying he even attended the MLB All Star game rather then taking part in these meetings. Me think Bob and the players may not be getting along =]

Your Alfie wasen't there either... I think it's pretty much been a lawyers convention for the past week or two.

Heck, Maybe there are some useful lawyers out there after all.

[Max Power]

Your Alfie wasen't there either... I think it's pretty much been a lawyers convention for the past week or two.

Heck, Maybe there are some useful lawyers out there after all.

I thought Bob was a lawyer? Or something like that? Don't really know much about him

[bluemeanie]

I thought Bob was a lawyer? Or something like that? Don't really know much about him

Not a practicing one I don't think. Once you stop practicing, you can no longer pretend that you're still a lawyer... it's like getting a sex change? you can try and ?hang out? with the old boys all you want? but they?re all just staring at your boobs when you talk.

[Max Power]

Not so fast?
I heard this has some truth to it

I can see why the Isls won't support this deal... the entire team are overpaid underachievers

Saying no would be mistake Rumblings say there may be whole NHL teams trying to scuttle new CBA deal
By BRUCE GARRIOCH, Ottawa Sun

Exhilaration, happiness, shock, anger, disappointment and overjoyed. Players felt a wide range of emotions when they found out they could return to the ice in September.

NEW START FOR NHL

But before anything is finalized, the players will have to listen NHLPA executive director Bob Goodenow, senior director Ted Saskin, president Trevor Linden and the rest of the executive committee.

It's likely the majority of players will vote yes for the new CBA, but it might not be overwhelming, maybe a 60/40 or 70/30 split.

What kind of message will that send to the union and the league?

"My suggestion to the players would be that they vote from the heart," said agent Allan Walsh of Octagon Hockey. "I can't tell them how to vote. These players are the ones who are going to have to live with this agreement. It's up to them to say Yes or No to it. An agent can't tell them how to vote. That's the players' right to decide."

In the wake of the agreement which includes a $39 million (all figures US) salary cap, there was scuttlebutt that suggested whole teams are preparing to vote No.

The talk was groups of players from the Minnesota Wild, New York Islanders and Atlanta Thrashers are all prepared to shoot down the new CBA based on what they've read in newspapers and heard on television.

TUNE CHANGED QUICKLY

Remember, it was only eight months ago many of these players stood side by side and issued repeated statements that they would never accept a salary cap. That tune changed quickly once it was realized this lockout could well drag into next season and beyond.

You can't blame some of these players if they're embarrassed by what took place.

Nashville Predators player rep Scott Walker was on TV spouting off about not accepting a cap the night Saskin was negotiating one in Niagara Falls with NHL VP Bill Daly.

Naturally there are players who are upset about what's transpired in the last three months of negotiations. They don't feel the players should have ever given in to a salary cap.

The reality is there's no better deal waiting ... and another year away from hockey won't solve anything.

There have been plenty of suggestions Goodenow doesn't support the deal -- and that's probably the case -- but he's got to back what his executive committee accepted from the league -- or he should resign.

The union is confident the players will accept this deal and get back to work.

"I know there's been a lot of speculation about what's in the deal. I can't really say anything because it has to be presented to the players, but this is a deal that everybody can live with," said Senators captain Daniel Alfredsson, a VP on the executive committee.

"What everybody has to do is get a close-up look at this and see exactly what is in this deal before they can make a decision. Once everybody gets a look, I think they'll see that this is a CBA that can work for the players. Hopefully, we'll have a good meeting and we'll be able to get back to playing."

bruce.garrioch@ott.sunpub.com

[bluemeanie]

The talk was groups of players from the Minnesota Wild, New York Islanders and Atlanta Thrashers are all prepared to shoot down the new CBA based on what they've read in newspapers and heard on television.

Can anyone say; C-O-N-T-R-A-C-T-I-O-N :conspire: ???

Anyhow, the important thing here is that the majority of players will vote in favour of the CBA. They've gone long enough with the realization that it ain't going to get any better then this. Besides... they've got that whole 'out clause' thingy going for them.

[Newfie John]

Bettman only needs 8 votes, so screw em.

[Mel]

Bettman only needs 8 votes, so screw em.

The players association needs to ratify the deal with a vote, regardless of the owners, for it to be official.

Like the article states, there is no better deal waiting. Players voting against this one need their heads examined.

[Newfie John]

The players association needs to ratify the deal with a vote, regardless of the owners, for it to be official.

Like the article states, there is no better deal waiting. Players voting against this one need their heads examined.

The article above is regarding the owners... as far as I read anyway.

[Max Power]

It's the players NJ
The one I posted anyways..
The talk was groups of players from the Minnesota Wild, New York Islanders and Atlanta Thrashers are all prepared to shoot down the new CBA based on what they've read in newspapers and heard on television.

[KB in Kelowna]

I have a question. What type of enforcement provisions are in this in terms of teams trying to get around the salary cap? Has anyone seen or heard details. The past mess was created by certain teams overspending and driving up the "market value" for players. Now I know that salaries are tied to hockey related revenues, but what stops an owner who in addition to his hockey team owns a cableTV system from say hiring a new marketing and promtions rep for several million and then paying this guy who happens to be a NHL calibre hockey player a cap freindly figure to lace them up for his team?

CFL fans know how well the honour system amongst the owners thier works on that leagues cap. When Murray Pezim owned the Lions he hired Doug Flutie to promote sime business venture as well as paying him to play Quarterback for the Lions.

[bluemeanie]

The Rich should have a little edge, don't you think? =]

[Max Power]

I have a question. What type of enforcement provisions are in this in terms of teams trying to get around the salary cap? Has anyone seen or heard details. The past mess was created by certain teams overspending and driving up the "market value" for players. Now I know that salaries are tied to hockey related revenues, but what stops an owner who in addition to his hockey team owns a cableTV system fro say hiring a new marketing and promtions rep for several million and then paying this guy who happens to be a NHL calibre hockey player a cap freindly figure to lace them up for his team?
.

You've got a point there
Melnyk could hire the entire Snes roster to promote his new Viagra line of Drugs right before the playoffs
http://res.dada.at/img/filmfakes/PharmaNiagraViagraPackung.gif

[bluemeanie]

You've got a point there
Melnyk could hire the entire Snes roster to promote his new Viagra line of Drugs right before the playoffs


Sounds good. That stuff makes you go blind, right? Come to think of it... it might actually be an improvment for your team.

[Max Power]

Sounds good. That stuff makes you go blind, right? Come to think of it... it might actually be an improvment for your team.

Anything to keep them going during the playoffs my friend

[Newfie John]

Something that a lot of you may not know. Teams are allowed to go over the 39 million dollar cap.

Bob Mckenzie stated it yesterday. When teams are trading they are allowed to exceed the cap number. As long as they start the season at or underneath the cap. Under no circumstances are they allowed to exceed the cap by free agency, I think.

[bluemeanie]

Anything to keep them going during the playoffs my friend

I can see a lot more incidents involving broken sticks happening in that series.

[Mel]

I have a question. What type of enforcement provisions are in this in terms of teams trying to get around the salary cap? Has anyone seen or heard details. The past mess was created by certain teams overspending and driving up the "market value" for players. Now I know that salaries are tied to hockey related revenues, but what stops an owner who in addition to his hockey team owns a cableTV system fro say hiring a new marketing and promtions rep for several million and then paying this guy who happens to be a NHL calibre hockey player a cap freindly figure to lace them up for his team?

CFL fans know how well the honour system amongst the owners thier works on that leagues cap. When Murray Pezim owned the Lions he hired Doug Flutie to promote sime business venture as well as paying him to play Quarterback for the Lions.

What you mean like Madison Square Garden hires a new janitor named Peter Forsberg for a 10 million annual salary... and when he's not busy sweeping up, he likes to skate for the New York Rangers in his spare time? :laughing:

That's crazy talk.

Seriously, I don't know the CFL's situation, but things like that do not happen in the NFL or NBA... and I am sure they won't happen under this new system. Remember this is not the first CBA Bettman has engineered. Safe guards are certain to be in place for even minor abuses... let alone the blatant abuse scenario outlined above. I know the NFL is rigorous in their cap enforcement. There's room to play around... but not much.

[Madferret]

Something that a lot of you may not know. Teams are allowed to go over the 39 million dollar cap.

Bob Mckenzie stated it yesterday. When teams are trading they are allowed to exceed the cap number. As long as they start the season at or underneath the cap. Under no circumstances are they allowed to exceed the cap by free agency, I think.

I don't really but that NJ. Anywhere in the CBA release where you could source us?

[Newfie John]

I don't really but that NJ. Anywhere in the CBA release where you could source us?

Well the CBA hasn't been released yet, but that is what Bob Mckenzie said.

[Mel]

Here are some more leaks about the new CBA:
highlights

Minimum player salary to increase over CBA term, great news for role and fringe players.
RFA must sign with clubs by Dec. 1 or sit out entire season
large reductions in how long clubs may retain rights to unsigned players
New random drug policy with very harsh penalties. (3rd time = permanent suspension)
League wide revenue levels that if reached, raise the players cut from 54% to as much as 57%.


By TIM WHARNSBY

Saturday, July 16, 2005 Updated at 1:41 AM EDT

From Saturday's Globe and Mail

The minimum salary for National Hockey League players would increase throughout the term of the six-year collective agreement tentatively reached this week.

That's just one of the tidbits that leaked out Friday when NHL executive vice-president Bill Daly began informing general managers and other club executives in New York.

There also would be a Dec. 1 deadline for restricted free agents to sign with clubs. If the player misses the cutoff date, he would have to sit out the entire season.

Also, there would be drastic reductions in how long a club can hold on to the rights of unsigned, drafted, U.S. college players and Europeans.

The Canadian Press reported yesterday that the new agreement contains the league's first drug policy. And the New York Post discovered that if league-wide revenue increases, the players' share of that revenue would increase.

The new agreement must be ratified by the NHL and the National Hockey League Players' Association.In the deal, a player's minimum salary would jump to $450,000 (all figures U.S.) from $185,000. After two years, the minimum would jump to $475,000 for the middle two seasons of the agreement and to $500,000 for the final two years.

The $39-million individual club salary cap would be linked to 54 per cent of the projected league revenue of $1.8-billion. Salaries would rise to 55 per cent if revenue hits $2.2-billion, 56 per cent at $2.4-billion and 57 per cent at $2.7-billion.

The inclusion of a drug policy is not surprising. It was speculated that the U.S. Congress would have legislated such a policy if the NHL and the NHLPA had not implemented the league's first random testing program. Under the new drug policy, a player would be tested twice a year. A first positive test would result in a 20-game suspension, while a 60-game penalty would be levied for a repeat offender. A third offence would result in permanent suspension.


http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20050716.wxnhlcba0716/BNStory/Sports/

[Amoroq]

I don't really but that NJ. Anywhere in the CBA release where you could source us?When you pick up a player at the deadline, the player you get has been paid most of their salary. Its not technically going over the cap, but it could appear that way.

[slapshot™]

What you mean like Madison Square Garden hires a new janitor named Peter Forsberg for a 10 million annual salary... and when he's not busy sweeping up, he likes to skate for the New York Rangers in his spare time? :laughing:

That's crazy talk.

When Gretz played in Edmonton he had a personal services contract with Peter Pocklington (the owner).

[KB in Kelowna]

When Gretz played in Edmonton he had a personal services contract with Peter Pocklington (the owner).

And we all recall how well that turned out for the Oilers in the 1990's.

[slapshot™]

And we all recall how well that turned out for the Oilers in the 1990's.

Unfortunately, I was unable to find an image of a burning Pocklington effigy.

[Mel]

In the new NHL... If a single team gets away with paying a single player for non-hockey related services and it doesn't count against the cap, I'll eat my pimp hat. :pimp:

[Max Power]

Mostly all stuff previously known... I highlighted one thing I didn't know

By CP

Some details expected in the six-year agreement which the NHL and NHLPA will vote on this week:

- A 24% salary rollback on all existing contracts.

- The upper limit on the salary cap for 2005-06 will be $39 million (all terms US) while the minimum floor will be at $21.5 million, based on projected revenues of $1.7 billion.

- Players salaries cannot -- on a league-wide basis -- take up more than 54% of revenues next season; in ensuing years, that percentage may increase depending on how high revenues get.

- A percentage of salaries will be put into escrow until the new salary cap can be calculated at the end of each season.

- No player can earn more than 20% of the team cap, which for 2005-06 means no player can earn more than $7.8 million.

- The average salary from an entire contract is what will count against the salary cap and not the actual salary from that very season. So a deal that starts at $4 million, then goes to $5 million and ends at $6 million counts as $5 million a year against the cap.

- Liberalized unrestricted free agency. Drops from age 31 to 29 next summer or any player with eight years of NHL experience -- with 2004-05 wiped-out season counting in service time. For summer of 2007, unrestricted free agency is age 28 or seven years' experience. For summer of 2008 and onwards, it's age 27 or seven years of experience.

The eight-year rule next summer means Joe Thornton and Vincent Lecavalier can qualify for unrestricted free agency if they're no longer under contract. Both will be 26 when free agency begins July 1, 2006.

The seven-year rule means Sidney Crosby could be an unrestricted free agent come the summer of 2012 when he'll be only 25.

- League-wide minimum salary bumped up to $450,000 from $185,000. The minimum rises to $500,000 in the sixth year of the deal.

- Revenue-sharing where the top 10 money-making clubs donate to a fund shared by the bottom 15 teams -- anywhere from $3 million to $8 million per club.

- The entry-level system will limit those players to $850,000 a year in salary (which it was 10 years ago) with bonuses not as easily reachable as the previous deal. The maximum possible amount in bonuses is $4.5 million, although it's unrealistic for almost anyone to reach all the lofty targets.

- Two-way salary arbitration. Both players and owners can select to go to arbitration, whereas only players had those rights in the previous deal. This will allow owners to downgrade underperforming players.

- The ability for teams to buy players out of their contracts at two thirds of their value at no cost towards the salary cap within 10 days after the CBA officially takes effect. This is meant to help teams fit under the cap, but the clubs won't be able to re-sign those players. Teams have between July 23-29 to determine their buyouts.

- Teams will not be allowed to re-structure existing player contracts in an attempt to fit a big salary under the cap.

- Restricted free agents have until Dec. 1 to re-sign with their teams; otherwise they cannot play in the NHL for the duration of the season.

- Stiff drug-testing policy; minimum of two drug tests a year with no advance warning. A player will earn a 20-game suspension for a first-time offence, a 60-game ban for a second offence and a permanent suspension from the NHL after a third violation.

[bluemeanie]

Radio reports saying that Deal is Done!!!

Enough votes have been submitted in favour of the deal, that any votes rejecting the deal from European players at this point will not impact decision.

[Max Power]

Radio reports saying that Deal is Done!!!

Enough votes have been submitted in favour of the deal, that any votes rejecting the deal from European players at this point will not impact decision.

YES!!!

removed

There's plenty of internet out there devoted to half-naked women guys. Please, we really don't need it here. Thanks Mel.

[bluemeanie]

I have these two stupid square blue stains on my screen and I can't seem to scratch them off, dammit!

[Madferret]

Sources: NHLPA ratifies new CBA
Canadian Press with TSN files
TORONTO (CP) - NHL players began the process of putting labour upheaval behind them Thursday, voting on the league's proposed new labour agreement and looking forward to getting back on the ice.

Sources have told TSN that the NHLPA has accepted the league's proposal for a new collective bargaining agreement. Some 225 players were in Toronto Thursday for the vote, with the other 500 or so casting their ballots electronically.

"Everyone wants to play hockey, that's the bottom line," said Toronto defenceman Bryan McCabe. "Coming out of this a lot of damage has been done and both sides have to start repairing it."

Voting began around 10 a.m. ET and was expected to take several hours. A news conference was scheduled for 4 p.m. with NHLPA executive director Bob Goodenow and NHL commissioner Gary Bettman. Goodenow was slated to announce results of the player vote at that news conference.

The action shifts to New York on Friday, when the league's board of governors has its say at a 1 p.m. meeting. That will be followed by a 3 p.m. Bettman news conference outlining proposed rule changes and then the draft lottery (TSN, 4 p.m.)

:thumb:

[PDO]

I don't like that you can't backload/front load contracts. I think it would've added a very interesting angle to the CBA and would've rewarded teams with proper management.

John is right, you're allowed to go over the cap - however your payroll over the term of the year can't surpass $39,000,000.

For example, you could play with a $36,000,000 cap for the first 3/4 of the season, and then you would be able to go to $48,000,000 to finish the season off, because it'd average out to $39,000,000. Not a big fan of it, but it allows wiggle room, I suppose..

[Iced Tea]

87% of the players voted for the deal. I don't know what the other 13% were thinking unless they didn't vote and were too busy at the cottage. :D

For those that voted against it; what are you thinking? The NHLPA has already lost their leverage and the deals offered keep getting worse. You going to hold out until the cap is $20 million?

[Mel]

From the home page of http://www.nhlpa.com/

The members of the NHLPA announced today that they have ratified the Collective Bargaining Agreement reached in principle last week with the NHL.

?After two days of thorough discussion and analysis, the players voted in favour of ratifying the new Collective Bargaining Agreement. We expect the owners will ratify the agreement tomorrow as well. Once the ratification process is complete, the focus of everyone can turn to the 2005-06 season.? - Bob Goodenow

I read some players reactions at ESPN, there was a lot of discussion over the past few days long into the night (4am) apparently. The quotes I read were pretty mild mannered. One player seemed to think they gave up a lot but they also gained a lot of things they didn't realize until they went over the details. Also they seemed genuinely focused on moving ahead and growing the league which is refreshing to hear. They seem to like the fact that they can grow their end of the pie if the league succeeds.

John Leclaire said "it's not about me it's about 700 guys". (they have since changed the article and removed some of the quotes). The only guy I heard complain was Darius Kasparitis about how much money he lost. If he thinks it's bad now with the roll back... wait till the Rangers buy him out, and see what his declining skills can fetch in the new NHL. :coffee:

[slapshot™]

87% of the players voted for the deal. I don't know what the other 13% were thinking unless they didn't vote and were too busy at the cottage. :D

source -> NHL.com (http://www.nhl.com/news/2005/07/230660.html)

The 228 players in attendance took part in an intensive review of the prospective deal on Wednesday and Thursday, prior to voting on its ratification early Thursday afternoon. Those players who were unable to attend the meeting were able to review the document over the NHLPA's secured internal website and conduct their vote online.

I think given the numbers in attendance the PA had a good turnout of voters. There are going to be fringe players that feel lucky just to be in the system and aren't going to vote. For whatever various reasons there will always be voter apathy regardless of the circumstances.

[Mel]

As I understand it.. the players were able to vote through their password protected web site. I imagine a lot of players were not interested in travelling to Toronto to go through the argumemts and issues... perhaps they just wanted to vote online and get back to work. That's my guess.

[Max Power]

I read some players reactions at ESPN, there was a lot of discussion over the past few days long into the night (4am) apparently. The quotes I read were pretty mild mannered. One player seemed to think they gave up a lot but they also gained a lot of things they didn't realize until they went over the details. Also they seemed genuinely focused on moving ahead and growing the league which is refreshing to hear. They seem to like the fact that they can grow their end of the pie if the league succeeds.


What I enjoyed was the fact that many of the players interviewed were saying how they now want the refs to call all obstruction. They realize less obstruction means a better game. A better game means more money and a potentially much higher cap. The players? fate is in their hands and hopefully this will result in a better game

[bluemeanie]

What I enjoyed was the fact that many of the players interviewed were saying how they now want the refs to call all obstruction. They realize less obstruction means a better game. A better game means more money and a potentially much higher cap. The players? fate is in their hands and hopefully this will result in a better game

Hopefully... and hopefully we don't get a bunch of showmen trying to take games into their own hands by creating one man shows filled with dazzeling moves that go nowhere... while the goons stand around looking for fights every two minutes, because 'dem fans luv a good punch fest'.

[slapshot™]

Actually, we (hockey fans) have been pointing our fingers at the players erroneously.

The coaches have been the ones that have slowed the game down to a snail's pace. They have been telling the players to clog up center ice and employ left-wing locks and the such. It is the coaches that tap the players on the head before they jump onto the ice and tell them to tie up the forwards in their defensive zone.

The players only do what the coaching staff tells them.

The onus is not really on the players to create a faster game, but rather, it is on the coaches who have to change systems to create more open ice out there and eliminate the clutching and grabbing.

League -> owners -> coaching staff -> players

If the league is serious in calling obstruction they better make it clear to the coaching staff of the teams and not to the players. As an example, the players will adapt to any system as can be seen when they change their play when on the larger international ice surface.

That's my two-bits for today.

[bluemeanie]

Yeah, but it's just easier to point our fingers at the guys who have their names printed on their backs. =]

[Mel]

I just got my letter from Mr. Bettman

July 22, 2005

Dear Friend of Hockey,

This is a letter I had hoped to be able to send you several months ago. I am certain it is one you had hoped to be able to read long before today, and I will never be able to express adequately my appreciation ? along with that of the entire National Hockey League ? for the patience you have shown through the most difficult period in our history.

While it may be said that the greatness of hockey, and the NHL, is best measured by the character and tenaciousness of its players, I would add that the greatness of our game is also reflected by the character and tenaciousness of you, our devoted fans. I thank you all for that passionate support and I apologize to all of you, on behalf of everyone involved, for testing that support as severely as we did.

The negotiation of a new Collective Bargaining Agreement was an extremely complex undertaking and it took a painfully long time to complete. I promise you it did not take one second longer than absolutely necessary; and while it required a lot of work and a lot of sacrifice by a lot of people ? including you ? the result is that a great game will be even better upon our return.

As we move forward now in partnership with our players, we move equally, to a new era of exceptional entertainment, in partnership with you. We will come back with new rules, with a new spirit of cooperation and with a renewed sense of excitement as the best athletes in the world display their skills for the best fans in the world and strive to win the best trophy in the world, the Stanley Cup.

Over the past year, there has been entirely too much talk about the business of hockey and entirely too little talk about the joys of hockey. At last, it?s time, once again, to have fun ? the kind of fun only hockey can offer. I cannot wait to get back to the rink and I very much look forward to seeing you there.

Let?s get ready to drop the puck!


Sincerely,

Did you get yours?

press conference in 20 minutes :pimp: :pimp: :pimp:

[Mel]

If you're stuck at the office but have online access... NHL.com is broadcasting their press conference live at 4 PM ET (about 10 minutes from now).

http://www.nhl.com/


http://nhl.speedera.net/image-upload/1005shield.gif

[J.R.]

Does anyone else get goosebumps when watching TSN's new commercial - "Welcome Back?" It's for the NHL on TSN, reappearing in the fall and the only audio present is the song "Welcome Back," (maybe KB can help me out with the artist) with a montage of great on-ice moments from the 2004 season including the TSN commentators smiling and laughing. I think it's great. It is sure getting me excited for hockey again.

[Amoroq]

If its the song I'm thinking of, and I haven't seen the ad, it would be Welcome Back by John Sebastian. He was part of lovin Spoonful. This was also the theme to Welcome Back Kotter.

[KB in Kelowna]

If its the song I'm thinking of, and I haven't seen the ad, it would be Welcome Back by John Sebastian. He was part of lovin Spoonful. This was also the theme to Welcome Back Kotter.

Amo got it. I haven't seen the commercial yet either.