Detroit Red Wings could get major advantage for next year
The NHL salary cap is expected to rise even further for 2025-26, meaning the Red Wings could take advantage of the additional space to further supplement their roster with talent.
It's hard to believe that it's now been almost 20 full years since the 2004-05 season was canceled thanks to the inability of the NHL and the NHLPA to agree on a salary cap.
Eventually, a deal was worked out, instituting a salary cap in the NHL for the 1st time. But over time, the cap has gradually risen from the initial $39 million cap.
According to NHL player agent Alan Walsh on The Steve Dangle Podcast, the cap for next year could rise as much as $8 million, meaning it could be as much as $97 million; the current cap is $88 million.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has yet to respond to the rumours of what would be the largest increase in the salary cap to date.
Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman has a key opportunity ahead of him
Detroit Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman hasn't been shy about saying he wants to rebuild through the Draft, and he's done so by putting together one of the more highly-regarded prospect cupboards in the NHL.
Fans remember how badly their prospect pool was decimated under former general manager Ken Holland, who routinely not only selected busts in the Draft but also traded away promising young talent for over-the-hill veterans.
But if the opportunity presents itself for the Red Wings to acquire established talent via free agency or trade and they could make it work thanks to additional salary cap space, it's something that Yzerman should consider.
