NHL players who are participating in the World Cup but do not have an existing contract can now breathe a little easier—the League has them covered, insurance-wise.
NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly announced that the League and NHLPA will provide insurance to any player joining the international hockey tournament without an existing contract.
Six players set to play in the tournament have been identified as restricted free agents.
“Team North America has three in Gaudreau, Monahan and Jets defenseman Jacob Trouba. Team Europe has forward Tobias Rieder of the Arizona Coyotes, and Team Russia has right wing Nikita Kucherov of the Lightning and defenseman Dmitry Orlov of the Capitals,” said the NHL in a news release on its website.
The unofficial deadline for restricted free agents to get under contract typically coincides with the start of training camp. For this year, that occasion almost coincides with the start of the World Cup.
Related stories:
Chubb loses legal fight against former NHL players
Head of insurance giant bringing hockey to Las Vegas