Major changes to NHL draft eligibility under discussion

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Liam McCormick
September 16, 2024 (7:07 PM)

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The NHL is reportedly exploring a change to draft criteria that would see 18 year olds ineligible after the first round.

On the latest episode of the 32 Thoughts Podcast, Elliotte Friedman revealed that the NHL has been discussing this major change to the draft criteria. 18 year old players could be selected in the first round, but in rounds 2 through 7, only players 19 and older can be picked. Friedman noted that the NHLPA would need to vote to approve the rule.

Friedman brought up the idea was being pushed by Hockey Hall of Famer Pat LaFontaine as part of a larger effort to improve player development. The modified draft idea was brought up in a discussion about bringing CHL and NCAA hockey together and eliminating roadblocks between the two, so both leagues are strengthened and younger players are better off.

Players would gain an extra crucial year of development, and NHL teams can evaluate them for a longer period before drafting them. This proposition seems mostly beneficial for saving NHL teams from mistakes with their draft picks. With obvious exception for elite players like Connor Bedard, this system may work better for both players and teams.

This change to the NHL draft would be a major fundamental change to the sport, and should be discussed at length before it's implemented. When the current Collective Bargaining Agreement between the NHL and the Players' Association expires after the 2025-26 season, it's possible we see a vote on this draft change.