Franchise...
Mighty Duck said:
If and when a players contract is up, he should have the same rights as any other American or Canadian to apply for work where he chooses. There are 30 teams (businesses) in the NHL, and it is only far that when a players contract is done, he have that right. Your thoughts
Remember, these "30 businesses" are franchises, meaning they paid money to the NHL to get a team. Unlike other franchise businesses like KFC, McDonald's etc., the product is the players not the recipe, which is why there is an agreement between the players and owners that deals with the draft and free agency issues.
The PA has never pushed for a much drastically lower UFA agee. Now, comparing the NHL restrictions to the other 3 team sports:
1) NBA, Rookies are locked into a 3 or 4 year rookie deal, then become UFA. Their current team can offer them the most money (The Larry Bird Exemption), which is why most rookies resign with their current team.
2) NFL, most rookies, outside of the top few picks get a standard 4 year deal, but right after that expires they become free agents, some are restricted and 1 player per team can be "Franchised" meaning they get the average of the top 5 paid players at their position. But, most are UFA and can sign with anyone they want.
3) MLB, player's rights are owned by the team for their first 6 years in the big leagues. They do have arbitration rights.
Now, the NBA, their players used to be Juniors/Seniors out of college, but more and more are coming out of High School, or they only play 1 or 2 years of college. So, their UFA at a very early age now, but the Larry Bird Exemption allows teams to keep their players.
NFL, these guys are between 21 - 23 coming out of college, so they're between 25 - 27 when they are free agents and given the physical pounding they take and the fact that hardly any trades occur, free agency is expected after 4 years since there is also a salary cap to keep teams even.
MLB, like hockey they have a minor league system, so they can bring in guys after they develop a bit. So, most guys are in their early 20's when they come up with the big club.
NHL, like MLB they draft guys are 18, but most don't play in the NHL until their early 20's as well. Definately a lower UFA can be sought, but this is an issue that will be tied to the CBA.