Hockey Players Urge Ninth Circuit to Revive U.S. Antitrust Claims

Law360 reported on a Ninth Circuit appeal in which professional and developmental hockey players are seeking to revive antitrust claims against the National Hockey League and Canadian Hockey League. The proposed class action alleges that agreements among the leagues and teams unlawfully restrict player movement, suppress compensation, and reduce competition through territorial draft and contracting arrangements, all in violation of the Sherman Act. The district court dismissed the claims, holding that it lacked jurisdiction over the defendants because they are largely based in Canada.

Zimmer Citron & Clarke LLP attorneys Eric Citron and Lindsey Powell are part of the appellate team representing the players and unions. Law360 identified the firm alongside other counsel seeking to overturn the dismissal and restore the antitrust claims.

The case presents important questions concerning the reach of U.S. antitrust law when allegedly anticompetitive conduct crosses international borders.