The NHL’s salary cap growth is expected to slow down despite rising revenues, according to league officials, as current financial structures create unsustainable inflation pressures. Commissioner Gary Bettman acknowledged that while team earnings continue climbing, the rapid expansion of player salaries under the existing model cannot keep pace indefinitely. The shift could force a reckoning over how league funds are allocated, potentially impacting team budgets and contract negotiations. Analysts warn that without adjustments, the imbalance risks straining both club finances and competitive balance in the long term.

The year-over-year growth in the salary cap eventually will taper off even if revenues continue to grow, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said, because the current cap inflation, resulting in soaring ...