After the jump I'll provide some basic information of the arbitration process and take a quick look at who the Oilers and Gagner might be thinking about using as comparable players. Article 12 of the CBA covers salary arbitration. That section of the CBA is 14 pages long and covers everything right down to the coin toss that is required to start the scheduling process. If you want to read it in detail you can download the CBA from the NHLPA website (the NHL seems to have removed it from their website), for those who aren't crazy I'll cover a few of the key points. What is probably the most important aspect of the arbitration process is what is and isn't allowed to be presented as evidence. The following are allowed: The player's overall performance including statistics in all seasons. Injuries, illnesses, and the number of games played. The player's length of service with the team and in the league. The player's overall contribution to the team's success or failure. The player's special qualities of leadership or public appeal. The performance and salary of any player alleged to be comparable. And this is what is not admissible: The salary and performance of a comparable player who signed a contract as an UFA. Testimonials, video and media reports. The financial state of the team. The salary cap and the state of the team's payroll. A couple of additional notes Because Gagner elected to file for arbitration the Oilers had the option