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What we learned in annual ‘state of NHL’ availability: All-Star changes, Bettman’s future, more
- The NHL will stage a 2027 All-Star weekend with 11 players from Canada, USA, Finland, and Sweden, plus a rest of world team, at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York.
- The 2027 All-Star skills showcase will be limited to players 25 and under, with a four-event format and a $1 million prize for the final shootout winner.
- Russia’s possible return to international play remains unsettled as IIHF decisions could influence participation in major events like the 2028 World Cup of Hockey.
- NHL commissioner Gary Bettman argued the current playoff format yields closer and more entertaining series than the 1-8 conference setup.
- Bettman confirmed a four-year extension of the current collective bargaining agreement with the NHLPA through the 2029-30 season.
- The decentralized NHL Draft will continue to be held without general managers in the building, with moves to speed up the first round.
- NHLPA leader Marty Walsh said Russian players still want to compete in best-on-best hockey when possible.
- Ron Hainsey noted some players from other countries expressed discomfort about Russia's return, affecting internal discussions.
- Bettman indicated a succession plan is in place, but said no imminent change in leadership is planned.
- The 2027 All-Star weekend will be hosted in Elmont, New York, with a format change to three-on-three play and country-based teams.
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