NHL Board Estimated Future Salary Cap Growth
The NHL projected the salary cap could reach $127.5 million by the 2028-29 season.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Hockey
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At a recent Board of Governors meeting, the NHL shared estimates projecting significant salary cap increases over the coming years. The league expects the ceiling to grow from its current level to over $127 million by 2029.
Why it matters
Rising league revenues driven by broadcasting deals and expanding international game slates are fueling the projected surge in player compensation limits. This growth trajectory reflects the broader upward trend in professional hockey franchise valuations.
The league currently operates with a $104 million salary cap while projecting $8.1 billion in revenue for this season. Future estimates suggest a rise to $113.5 million for 2027-28 and $127.5 million for 2028-29.
The players
NHL
The National Hockey League is the premier professional ice hockey organization in North America featuring teams from both the United States and Canada.
Connor McDavid
Connor McDavid is a prominent professional hockey player who stands to see his potential earning capacity increase significantly under the new salary cap projections.
The details
Individual player salaries remain restricted to 20% of the total team salary ceiling, meaning elite stars like Connor McDavid could command up to $25 million per season under the 2028-29 cap. This expansion is supported by consistent revenue growth and the strategic increase of international game opportunities.
Timeline
2027-28 is the target season for a projected $113.5 million salary cap.
2028-29 is the target season for a projected $127.5 million salary cap.
Season Trajectory
These cap projections signal a shift toward significantly higher payroll flexibility for teams over the next half-decade. This evolution will alter how franchises approach long-term contract extensions and roster construction during the remainder of the decade.
The projected cap growth means superstar players could eventually sign contracts worth $25 million annually, fundamentally changing the league's competitive landscape. Fans and analysts should anticipate larger contract figures becoming standard for marquee talent as these ceilings increase.
The takeaway
These projections indicate that the financial ceiling for professional hockey teams is set to rise substantially through the end of the decade. Increased revenues provide the league with the necessary capital to support these higher salary thresholds for top-tier athletes.
Further reading
For more information on league financial trends, visit the Hockey section.
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