The NHL's unique tradition of emergency backup goaltenders (EBUGs) is on the verge of change. With a new collective bargaining agreement starting in the 2026-27 season, teams must now have a full-time traveling goalie, diminishing the legendary tales of ordinary heroes taking the ice in dire situations. Former EBUGs like David Ayres and Scott Foster have shared their bittersweet feelings about this evolution, while the rarity of EBUG appearances—only six in over 13,000 games in the last decade—heightens the nostalgia. The community is grappling with the inevitable shift, but hopeful for new opportunities as the role evolves with the demands of modern hockey.

The NHL's emergency backup goalie (EBUG) phenomenon is on the verge of transformation. Once celebrated for their unique and spontaneous entries into the game, the new collective bargaining agreement mandates teams to have a full-time, traveling goalie instead of relying on local EBUGs. This change is bittersweet for many, as the rare stories of regular individuals stepping in during emergencies, like David Ayres and Scott Foster, may become a relic of the past. EBUGs have only been called upon six times in recent seasons, making their moments all the more special.

Tyler Stewart and others from the EBUG community express mixed reactions, reminiscing about the excitement and unpredictability of their roles. While some see this as a necessary evolution due to the increasing demands placed on goalies, others fear it diminishes the folklore aspect of the position. The new rules still allow for some fairytale opportunities, although they will now be under stricter conditions, ensuring a shift in the narrative of these beloved figures in hockey.

The Chicago Blackhawks have signed Anton Frondell, the third overall pick in the recent draft, to a three-year entry-level contract with a salary cap hit of $975,000. The 18-year-old Swedish forward had a productive season with Djurgarden, netting 11 goals and contributing 14 assists across 29 games, helping the team secure promotion to Sweden's top division.

Frondell also showcased his talent on the international stage, playing a vital role in Sweden's silver medal run at the 2025 IIHF World U18 Championship. He tallied one goal and two assists during the tournament, further solidifying his reputation as a rising star in hockey.

The Chicago Blackhawks have officially signed Anton Frondell, the third overall pick from last month's NHL draft, to a three-year entry-level contract. Frondell's deal carries a salary cap hit of $975,000. The 18-year-old Swedish forward made a significant impact last season with Djurgarden in Sweden's second division, scoring 11 goals and providing 14 assists over 29 games, contributing to the team's promotion to the top division for the upcoming season.

Frondell's impressive performance extended to the international stage, where he was instrumental in helping Sweden secure a silver medal at the 2025 IIHF World U18 Championship, scoring a goal and assisting on two others in just three games. His combination of skill and youth makes him a promising asset for the Blackhawks as they look to build for the future.

The unique role of emergency backup goaltenders (EBUGs) in the NHL, epitomized by memorable moments from David Ayres and Scott Foster, faces impending changes due to the new collective bargaining agreement starting in the 2026-27 season. The league will require teams to hire full-time traveling EBUGs, marking a shift from the nostalgic tradition of calling players from the stands.

While many within the EBUG community express sadness about this transition, they acknowledge the need for increased support for goalies. The rarity of EBUG appearances—only six instances in the last decade—highlights their legendary status. As the NHL evolves, discussions focus on the implications of this change for aspiring goalies and the viability of maintaining an EBUG model.