NHL salary cap could increase to $76M in 2017-18

The NHL's 2017-18 salary cap could increase to upwards of $76 million next season depending on annual negotiations with the players' association, Bill Daly said Tuesday, according to Sportsnet's Chris Johnston.

The $75.5-million-$76-million projection once again hinges on the NHLPA agreeing to activate the five percent growth escalator. The players could elect against the cap progression, therefore limiting the attached increase in escrow.

There was a belief the players would choose that route last year, but ultimately agreed to trigger a $1.6-million increase.

Daly's projection outlines a potential $2.5-million-$3-million increase, earmarking the salary floor at over $45 million.

The NHL's salary structure is close to doubling the initial $39-million salary cap introduced following the 2004-05 lockout.