AGENT TO FRONT OFFICE: Managing the NHL Salary Cap ft. Utah Mammoth AGM David Ludwig

Episode 7 of The PuckPedia Hockey Show features Utah Mammoth Assistant General Manager David Ludwig, who shares his journey from working with KO Sports as an agent to managing the salary cap and roster in the NHL. Ludwig offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to balance player relationships, team strategy, and the complexities of the league’s business side.

“Once I realized I wasn’t probably good enough to play in the NHL, my goal was to stay involved somehow.”

Ludwig discusses the transition from agency work to the front office, the challenges of navigating the salary cap, and the logistics of moving a team and staff across the country.

“At the end of the day…these players are employees. They’re due a certain amount of money, and we base everything off comparable players.”

He also reflects on trades and acquisitions, including the JJ Peterka deal, and the strategy behind building a competitive roster while managing cap space.

“Buffalo really coveted Michael Kesselring…we had about three hours to get this deal together…five years for us was a good term. We were excited to have him locked in.”

For those hoping to break into hockey operations or player representation, Ludwig shares candid advice:

“You’ve got to be willing to do anything that’s asked of you…reach out to as many people as you can. You might hear no 99 times, but it just takes one person to say yes…when you get that chance, go above and beyond.”

Whether you’re a fan curious about the inner workings of an NHL front office or someone interested in the business side of hockey, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

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