The NHL’s recent agreement on salary cap projections has sent shockwaves through the league, reshaping how teams approach the upcoming March 7 trade deadline. On January 31, the NHL and NHLPA announced a deal to provide “increased predictability” for the salary cap over the next three seasons, assuming a new collective bargaining agreement is reached beyond the 2025-26 season. The projected upper limits are:
– **2025-26:** $95.5 million
– **2026-27:** $104 million
– **2027-28:** $113.5 million
This significant cap increase not only gives players a clearer picture of their future earnings but also fundamentally alters how teams are strategizing for the trade deadline. One NHL executive noted, “I think this is going to be an interesting deadline. Everybody’s like, ‘We’re going to have money next year.’ So I wonder if you might see some actual contracts move. Teams might be looking at free agency this summer and wondering what they’re actually going to get out of it. So maybe they’re willing to trade for Seth Jones or something at the deadline.”
With the cap set to rise dramatically, teams are now more willing to take on larger contracts or make bold moves to position themselves for future success. Here’s a look at some of the players who could be on the move before the March 7 deadline, ranging from blockbuster possibilities to low-cost additions that could make a difference in the Stanley Cup chase. This list is based on conversations with league executives, media reports, and insights from ESPN insiders Kevin Weekes and Emily Kaplan. Salary figures are sourced from Cap Wages and PuckPedia.
The rising cap has opened the door for creative trades and signings, making this one of the most intriguing trade deadlines in recent memory. Teams are no longer just focused on short-term rentals; they’re also eyeing long-term investments that align with the projected cap growth. Whether it’s a star player like Seth Jones or a depth piece with a bargain contract, the NHL trade landscape is poised for a major shakeup.
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