The NHL and NHLPA's new CBA will reshape the role of emergency backup goaltender (EBUG) starting in the 2026-27 season. EBUGs will travel with their teams and must be declared 48 hours before the season and 24 hours before each game. Criteria for being an EBUG include not having played an NHL game under a standard contract, playing fewer than 80 professional games, and other restrictions that ensure EBUGs are not seasoned players who have recent professional experience.
The role of emergency backup goaltender (EBUG) in the NHL will be transformed into a full-time position starting in the 2026-27 season. EBUGs must travel with their teams and be declared before games.
The new criteria for EBUGs prohibits them from having played an NHL game under a standard player contract or more than 80 professional games, ensuring that they are largely new faces.
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