What happened: Bettman said the protection was designed for players signing long-term deals. He said the league will keep monitoring how clauses are used with trade requests rising ahead of the 2026-27 season.

Why it matters: Clauses limit where teams can move contracted players and shape preseason roster construction. Widespread protection can stall rebuilds and force buyers to pay more for flexible targets.

What to watch: General managers are expected to revisit the topic at upcoming league meetings and in future collective bargaining talks.