Interesting thread. I am increasingly of the opinion that it is no fluke that not a single Canadian team has lifted Lord Stanley since 1993.
For me there are three major issues tilting things heavily in favor of US franchises:
1. Differences in take come pay relative to same cap. A truly even playing field is a cap that has an adjustment factor (for differences in taxes). UFA costs are that much higher for Canadian team to compete for a contract.
2. The ridiculous UFA rule for US college players being allowed to become UFAs after 4th year in College. If you are drafted by a team you are that team's property if they sign you until UFA years, period.
3. No trade clauses or NMC. Abolish them until age 35 or at least 32. Should not exist until well into UFA years when players have kids in schools whereby movement is much more disruptive. Canadian teams are constantly handcuffed by this, since on every players no trade list partially because of 1 (less take home pay), increased media pressure and climate.
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