Utah Grizzlies Face Potential Strike Before Final Games in Utah
The Utah Grizzlies face uncertainty as players' union issues a strike notice, potentially affecting final games.

Fans of the Utah Grizzlies are preparing for a farewell as the team prepares to relocate to New Jersey in April. However, the team's remaining schedule is uncertain following a strike notice issued by the players' union. The Professional Hockey Players' Association (PHPA) announced on Monday that its ECHL membership has officially served a strike notice that will take effect on December 26, 2025. This notice was delivered to the league on December 18.
The PHPA has been in negotiations with the ECHL since January, but has struggled to reach a new agreement due to the league's alleged unfair labor practices. The union claims that the ECHL has engaged in unlawful conduct, including changing mandatory bargaining subjects and participating in regressive bargaining tactics. In response to these issues, PHPA officials have filed an unfair labor practice charge with the National Labor Relations Board.
Additionally, the union has raised concerns about player safety and equipment standards. Players have reported that they are not allowed to select properly fitting helmets and that teams are providing used equipment. There are also claims regarding the treatment of travel days, with players stating that days spent on long bus trips are being classified as days off.
The ECHL has acknowledged the strike authorization, emphasizing its commitment to reaching an agreement that enhances player compensation and improves health and safety measures. However, league officials have indicated that if a resolution is not achieved by December 26, they may need to postpone or cancel upcoming games. This situation has left fans and players alike anxious about the team's future and the integrity of the remaining games this season.