Each existing team may choose how many players they protect from these two options:

8 skaters (any combination of F and D) + 1 goaltender
OR 
7 forward + 3 defenseman + 1 goaltender



All player age 23 years or younger (as of July 1 2024) are automatically protected. This should offer ample protection to the farm roster. Players on the prospect list may not be selected regardless of age.


Expansion teams must pick one player from each existing franchise. This gives them 24 players to start, plus free agency and trading. 

Only one goaltender from any single team can be selected, if one expansion team selects a goaltender from a team, then the other expansion team cannot also select a goaltender from the same.

Quebec won the coin toss and will select first, the draft will run in snake order and last for 24 rounds. (1. QUE, PHQ; 2. PHQ, QUE; 3. QUE, PHQ; 4. PHQ, QUE, etc.)


Two spots will be added to the upcoming lottery. Each expansion team will receive the average point total of the teams in the lottery.


The expansion draft will begin after the AHL Cup has been awarded and should move quickly if the GMs remain active. A list of available players will be provided. 

==========

Offseason Schedule

1. AHL Cup Final
2. Awards + Money (1 day)
3. Expansion Draft (1 week)
4. Entry Draft (2 weeks)
5. Free Agency (2 weeks, should overlap the end of Entry Draft)
6. Rerates, Captains, Reps, Position changes, Pickem, etc.