What Happened
The league and its players’ union plan a meeting early next year to explore a "smoothing" approach that would spread cap growth across the 2027‑28 and 2028‑29 campaigns. Under the existing collective bargaining agreement, the ceiling for 2027‑28 is set at $113.5 million, while the Board of Governors has projected $127.5 million for the following season. Both sides have expressed openness to a scenario where the 2027‑28 cap is modestly increased and the 2028‑29 cap is reduced by an equivalent amount, thereby flattening the rise. No formal proposal has been signed, and talks are expected to continue over the coming months. The idea draws on a similar NBA adjustment after a television‑driven cap jump.
Key Details
- Current CBA caps 2027‑28 at $113.5 million
- Board of Governors estimate for 2028‑29 is $127.5 million
- Proposed smoothing could raise 2027‑28 and lower 2028‑29 by the same dollar amount
- Example: increase to $115.5 million for 2027‑28, decrease to $125.5 million for 2028‑29
- Both NHL and NHLPA have signaled willingness to discuss but no agreement is in place
- The approach mirrors the NBA’s post‑TV‑deal cap‑spike mitigation
What It Means
If the parties reach a smoothing agreement, teams would gain a slightly higher ceiling for the 2027‑28 season, potentially easing contract extensions and free‑agent negotiations. A lower cap the following year could force clubs to adjust payrolls sooner, impacting mid‑term roster planning and possibly prompting earlier buyouts or trades. The move would also provide more predictability for salary‑cap forecasting, reducing the shock of a large single‑year jump that could disadvantage smaller‑market franchises. Overall, a balanced two‑year spread could promote competitive parity while preserving player earnings growth.
What's Next
The NHL and NHLPA are slated to convene in early January 2027 to begin formal discussions. Outcomes are expected to be outlined in the next few months, with any amendment to the CBA likely announced before the start of the 2028‑29 season.