Long term IR (Injured Reserve) in hockey refers to a designation that allows teams to place injured players on the IR list for an extended period of time. This designation is used when a player’s injury is expected to keep them out of the game for a significant amount of time, usually more than 10 games or 24 days. Here are some facts and frequently asked questions about long term IR in hockey:
Supporting Facts:
1. Players placed on long term IR still count against the team’s salary cap. However, their salaries do not count towards the team’s salary cap during their time on the IR list.
2. Long term IR provides teams with salary cap relief and allows them to temporarily replace the injured player on the roster.
3. Players on long term IR are not eligible to play in any games until they have served the minimum time requirement.
4. Each team in the National Hockey League (NHL) is allowed a maximum of three players on long term IR at any given time.
5. Long term IR status is determined by team doctors in consultation with the league’s medical staff, and the player’s injury must meet certain criteria to qualify.
FAQs:
1. How long can a player be on long term IR in hockey?
– There is no specific time limit. The player must serve a minimum of 10 games or 24 days, but the length of time depends on the severity of the injury.
2. Can a player be activated from long term IR before completing the minimum time requirement?
– No, a player cannot be activated from long term IR until they have served the minimum time requirement set by the league.
3. Can a team replace a player on long term IR with another player?
– Yes, teams are allowed to sign or call up a replacement player to fill the roster spot of the player placed on long term IR.
4. Can a player on long term IR practice with the team?
– While players on long term IR are not allowed to participate in games, they are often permitted to practice with the team to aid in their recovery.
5. How does long term IR impact the team’s salary cap?
– While a player is on long term IR, their salary does not count towards the team’s salary cap. This creates additional flexibility for the team to make roster moves or sign new players.
6. Can a player on long term IR be traded?
– Yes, players on long term IR can be traded, but the acquiring team needs to be aware of the player’s injury status and cap implications.
7. What happens once a player on long term IR is ready to return?
– Once a player on long term IR has recovered from their injury and is deemed fit to play, they can be activated from the IR list and rejoin the team for practices and games.
BOTTOM LINE:
Long term IR in hockey is a designation for injured players who are expected to be out of the game for an extended period of time. It allows teams to temporarily replace the injured player and provides salary cap relief. Players must serve a minimum time requirement before they can be activated from long term IR.
