NHL commissioner Gary Bettman says trade protection has gone past ‘original intention’

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has commented that no-trade clause protections for players have evolved beyond their originally intended purpose in the league. Bettman's remarks suggest that the prevalence and scope of trade protection clauses in player contracts have expanded significantly over time, potentially complicating team-building and roster management for franchises. The commissioner's statement indicates the league may be looking to address or revisit how such clauses are negotiated in future collective bargaining discussions.