The current CBA provided for a 17 game schedule but not an 18 game schedule. This agreement runs thru the 2030 season so it looks like the 17 game schedule is with us at least until then.
It is theoretically possible for the players and owners to get together before then and come to terms on an 18 game season, but the current agreement passed by a very slim margin (1,019 to 959) and the general consensus is that it only passed by 60 votes because of widespread resistance among players to go to 17 games. My bet is an 18 game schedule would be shot down by the players while this CBA is in effect.
And I would also bet that there would be little support among players for an 18 game schedule in the next CBA.
AlbaNY_Ram
