Report: NHL wants players to defer more money for upcoming season

The NHL is asking its players to defer 13% of their pay for the upcoming campaign as part of return-to-play negotiations, sources told Larry Brooks of the New York Post.

That isn't an official proposal, but the idea has been discussed between the league and the players' union, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reports.

The NHLPA agreed to a 10% deferral as part of the six-year collective bargaining agreement extension signed in July before the league returned for the expanded postseason. That money is due to be repaid in three equal, interest-free installments in October 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Several players who have large signing bonuses would be unable to defer the combined 23%, according to PuckPedia.

If players agree to the deferral, it would mean no pro-rated salaries for the upcoming season, Friedman added.

However, the CBA Memo of Understanding states: "The parties also agree to continue discussions regarding the possibility of allowing players and clubs to negotiate additional deferrals on a case-by-case basis."

The NHL is targeting a Jan. 1 start date and is expected to conduct a regular season of 48 to 60 games.