from Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet,

As the 2016-17 season looms, there remains much to settle regarding pending changes to goalie equipment.

The tighter, more form-fitting pants will be worn…once everyone gets them. The hope is that’s in time for Wednesday. But it’s possible that doesn’t occur since Reebok/CCM ships from China and Bauer from Thailand. But goalies recognize this is going to happen early in the season.

The more contoured chest/shoulder protection? That’s an uncertain target.

Kay Whitmore, the NHL’s goaltending supervisor, declined to discuss the situation. A current NHL goalie, who says he’s in favour of the changes, said he “can’t believe how difficult” this process is.

One of the biggest challenges turned out to be with the equipment companies. There are four primarily involved in producing goalie equipment: Bauer, Brian’s, Reebok/CCM and Vaughn. (The latter two are the dominant retailers when it comes to pants and the chest protector.)

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