NHL CBA 101: How is Player Age Calculated?

Question: How is player age calculated, particularly as it relates to the sliding of Entry-Level Contracts?

Age at the time of signing a first contract is a critical factor when it comes to calculating eligibility for “sliding” the terms of an entry-level contract.

In this case, age is the player’s age on September 15 of the calendar year in which he signs the contract, regardless of his actual age on the date he actually signs the contract.

Real Example: The Detroit Red Wings signed Anthony Mantha to an entry-level contract on October 13, 2013.

Mantha was born on September 16, 1994. While he was actually 19 at the time of signing, his “age” in this case was 18, as calculated on September 15 of that year.

CBA Reference: 9.2 Page 24

Note: Explanation and legal interpretation of the above is solely the opinion of the author and may not reflect all scenarios or actual CBA interpretation by NHL/NHLPA representatives. If you have a suggestion for improving this interpretation, please reach out via our Contact page.