Speaking Wednesday at the Sports Business Journal's "Dealmakers in Sport" panel, Bettman said: "We've been absolutely unequivocal with the players that we are not trying to renegotiate."

The Devils did not qualify for the postseason and have made the Stanley Cup Playoffs once in the past eight seasons. They're hoping the addition of veteran goalie Corey Crawford, a two-time Stanley Cup winner, can change that.

The Commissioner said the NHL Players' Association would sign off on a training camp of appropriate length, which might be slightly shorter than past seasons. Teams probably would want to play a preseason game or two, he said.Tennessee Titans for NHL Face Masks

The Devils could be a season away from competing for a playoff spot with several prospects, including Smith and forwards Janne Kuokkanen and Jesper Boqvist, trying to make the team out of training camp.

"I think Coach is going to use me in a variety of ways, especially as a small-ball 5 and 4 sometimes," Durant said. "And bringing the ball up, too, so I've just got to be ready for anything."

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According to Durant, the Nets aren't placing an "emphasis" on playing center during small-ball lineups, with coach Steve Nash instead encouraging positionless basketball. On one possession, for example, Durant said that Kyrie Irving could be playing shooting guard, while Caris LeVert brings the ball upcourt.Miami Dolphins for NHL Face Masks

"I will always treasure meeting Fred at the 2019 Heritage Classic in his native Saskatchewan, getting to spend some precious time getting to know him and the gift he gave me that day -- a statue depicting his NHL rookie card,'' NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said in a statement.