NHL mandates number 00 for all emergency backup goalies

Under new rules established by the NHL collective bargaining agreement for the 2026-27 season, all emergency backup goalies (EBUGs) will be required to wear the jersey number 00. This change follows the transition of the EBUG role into a full-time position where goalies travel with their respective teams. To qualify, these individuals must have no NHL experience, fewer than 80 professional games played, and cannot be on an NHL reserve list.

The mandate has created a potential conflict with several NHL mascots. At least 13 team mascots, including Gritty of the Philadelphia Flyers and Wild Wing of the Anaheim Ducks, already wear the number 00. This may necessitate changes to mascot branding or compensation to resolve the numbering overlap.