The NHL has told its clubs that they are forbidden to acquire players who are already under contract in Russia, but can take free agents without paying any compensation.
The new agreement regulates financial compensation, limits the number of players that can leave Europe annually, and imposes a transfer deadline. It also ensures participation of NHL players -- including Russians -- at the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy.
Under the agreement, the NHL will pay a basic development fee of US$200,000 (167,000 euros) for each player signed. If more than 45 players sign, the amount will be US$225,000 (188,000 euros) each.
Teams will also be compensated for players who are signed by NHL clubs but who are not on the roster for 30 games or more -- including playoffs -- in their first season.
There were 194 European players signed by NHL clubs during the previous player transfer agreement, including 41 from the Russian league.
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