Here’s the latest across reputable outlets on the NHL salary cap:
Cap ceiling projections have continued to rise in recent years, with discussions of increases in the mid-to-high single digits for the 2025-26 horizon and beyond. Several reports cited potential caps in the range of about $95 million to $104 million for 2025-26 and 2026-27, with further steps up anticipated through 2027-28 as outlined in league discussions and post-CBA projections. [cite ][cite ][cite ]
Specific announced benchmarks: in 2024-25 the cap was set around the high $80s (roughly $88 million), and multiple outlets noted that the cap could rise by approximately $7–9 million for 2025-26, followed by more sizable increases in subsequent seasons contingent on the collective bargaining agreement and revenue growth. [cite ][cite ]
For teams and fans, the trend has been toward greater payroll flexibility and larger contracts for top players as the cap climbs, with insiders signaling continued upward movement if revenues stay strong post-pandemic normalization. This has been echoed by outlets tracking cap projections and major reports on the next CBAs. [cite ][cite ]
One quick note: cap figures and timelines can shift with new CBA negotiations and league revenue data. If you’d like, I can pull the most current single-number update and summarize its source, and I can also provide a short chart showing projected cap levels year by year based on the latest reported estimates. [cite ]
On top of the NHL salary cap's upper limit increasing to $95.5 million next season, the cap is expected to jump to $104 million and $113.5 million in the following two seasons.
thehockeynews.comThe NHL is finally out of the shadow of the COVID pandemic and there are expectations that a stagnant salary cap will be a thing of the past. After a few years
www.si.comThe NHL’s salary cap could see a bigger-than-expected jump next season, potentially reaching $107 million, according to insider Elliotte Friedman. Speaking on 32 Thoughts: The Podcast, Friedman said he’s begun hearing that next year’s cap ceiling — initially projected around $104 million — could climb even higher.
www.yardbarker.comNHL salary cap projected to reach $92.5 million next season. Learn how this impacts your favorite teams and find more NHL news here.
www.nhltraderumor.comUpcoming free agents in the NHL will be thrilled to hear the latest salary cap projections.
bleacherreport.comA comprehensive guide to the NHL salary cap for the 2024–2025 season. Learn how the NHL salary cap works, the current \$88.5M cap ceiling and $65M floor, cap hit rules, historical cap figures, and FAQs. Updated with the latest NHL salary cap news to help fans and experts understand team payroll limits and regulations.
capwages.comThe NHL Announced Saturday that the Salary Cap for next season will be raised to $88 Million.
thehockeynews.comIt will be a great time to be a free agent in the NHL again.
www.yardbarker.comAn NHL Insider has reported that the NHL salary cap could increase by as much as $9 million for the 2025-26 season.
thehockeywriters.comNHL commissioner Gary Bettman gave an update on salary cap, expansion and outdoor games after the board of governors meeting in Columbus.
www.espn.com