What happened: Gary Bettman said the recent uptick in trade requests is not a healthy development for the NHL. He added the league will keep watching the issue and said no-trade clauses are being used differently than originally intended.

Why it matters: The commissioner's comments push a contract-and-roster issue into public view ahead of the 2026-27 season. More trade requests can complicate long-term planning and sharpen the tug-of-war over how much leverage comes with negotiated movement protection.

What to watch: Watch for follow-up comments from the league and club executives on trade protection language during preseason media availability. Further public push from players or managers would show whether this is an isolated complaint or a broader contract issue.