I can see the NCAA, CHL and the NHL working together to develop a structured and controlled optimal development path:
CHL / USHL (16-19yrs)
NCAA / CIS (20-23yrs)
AHL / NHL
In theory it would require certain guarantees such as a standard four year agreement for CHL / USHL, exceptions for super elite individuals, NIL changes to allow Canadian athletes to earn, etc., but the result could offer greater opportunities and possibilities for more players.
NIL money is changing the landscape rather quickly. Not saying NCAA Hockey will fully participate but Check out the following from the Athletic:
“We should start by going back to the recruitment of five-star quarterback
Nico Iamaleava, who agreed to
an unprecedented $8 million NIL deal in 2022 after committing to the Vols. It’s still a big number, but even just two years ago, it made waves. The largest NIL deal anyone had heard of was going to a QB who’d spurned steadier powers for oft-turbulent Tennessee.”