The American Hockey League (AHL) and the Professional Hockey Players’ Association (PHPA) have reached a tentative agreement on a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA), marking a significant step forward in labor relations between the league and its players. The announcement was made on January 7, 2026.
While the terms of the new agreement have not been publicly disclosed, the tentative nature of the deal indicates that both sides have found common ground on key issues affecting the players’ contracts, working conditions, and other employment-related matters. Final ratification of the agreement will still require approval from the relevant stakeholders, including players and team representatives.
The PHPA represents most players in the AHL, the primary developmental league for the National Hockey League (NHL). Historically, the relationship between the AHL and the PHPA has centered on ensuring fair treatment for players who are often balancing the challenges of developing their skills while contributing to their teams’ success both on and off the ice.
Reaching a tentative CBA is important for maintaining labor stability in the league and ensuring that the players’ concerns regarding compensation, workplace safety, travel conditions, and health benefits are addressed. The new deal is expected to provide a framework that supports both player development and organizational sustainability as the AHL continues to grow and evolve within the broader North American hockey landscape.
The agreement arrives at a time when the AHL is experiencing increased attention and expansion, with a number of NHL franchises investing in their minor league affiliates to create stronger pipelines for talent development. A stable labor agreement will help facilitate long-term planning for these organizations.
Further details about the contents of the new CBA and the timeline for ratification are expected to be released once both sides have completed their internal processes.
Until then, the tentative agreement represents a positive step toward securing a stable and productive future for players and teams across the league.
