A lawsuit filed on June 22 in the Delaware Court of Chancery by the United States Premier Hockey League has thrown the upcoming 2026‑27 hockey season into uncertainty for four former National Collegiate Development Conference teams.
The complaint alleges that these clubs conspired to breach non‑compete agreements and financial obligations while secretly negotiating a transition to the North American Hockey League, a rival circuit that has been courting several NCDC members.
Erik Hudson’s Role in the Controversy
Idaho Falls Spud Kings general manager Erik Hudson is specifically named in the suit, accused of taking part in NCDC meetings while the team plotted its move to the rival league.
The filing seeks injunctive relief to halt the transfer and demands fiscal damages, underscoring the league’s determination to enforce its contractual rules.
The four teams involved — the Spud Kings among them — have publicly announced their intention to join the NAHL for the 2026‑27 season, a shift that could reshape the regional hockey landscape.