NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has refuted rumors regarding a potential significant increase in the league's salary cap for the 2025-26 season. In comments made on Tuesday, Bettman stated, 'I don't know where that came from,' responding to reports that suggested a rise in the salary cap beyond the anticipated figure. The commissioner emphasized that the figures circulating in the media were not accurate and reminded stakeholders that any changes to the salary cap would necessitate discussions between the league and the Players Association about how the cap is calculated.
These remarks follow a report from Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet, who indicated that discussions might emerge regarding an increase of the salary cap, which is projected to be approximately $92.5 million. Speculations suggested that the cap could potentially rise to $95 or $97 million. However, Bettman's comments indicate that substantial negotiations are required before such increases materialize, reinforcing the idea that the topic remains in early stages.
As per the current collective bargaining agreement set to expire in September 2026, the salary cap for this season is established at $88 million, with projections for the 2025-26 season currently hovering around $92.5 million. The existing CBA allows for a salary cap increase of up to five percent each year. However, if an agreement is reached between the league and the NHLPA, a more substantial increase can occur, similar to the recent adjustments where the cap ceiling was lifted by 5.39 percent over the summer. The salary cap will likely be a central topic in the negotiations for the next CBA, with any notable increase expected to affect player contracts and provide greater financial flexibility for teams.
