NHL salary cap rises to highest level, fan costs increase
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 29, 2026, 4:04 AM
Last updated Jul 29, 2026
The NHL salary cap has climbed to $104 million, marking a significant rise since its inception of $39 million in 2005. Player salaries have also skyrocketed, exemplified by record contracts from stars like Kirill Kaprizov and Leo Carlsson. Meanwhile, the cost of being a hockey fan has surged, with average ticket prices expected to reach $82.69 in the 2026–27 season, up from $41.19 in the cap's first year. Streaming services have replaced traditional TV packages, adding to the financial burden for fans.
- •NHL salary cap has increased to $104 million as of 2026.
- •Record contracts for players like Kirill Kaprizov and Leo Carlsson highlight salary growth.
- •Average ticket prices forecasted to be $82.69 for the 2026–27 season.
- •Increased costs for fans stem from streaming services and merchandise prices.
- 4:04 AMYahoo Sports — The NHL salary cap has never been higher. Neither has the cost of hockey fandom
"The cost of hockey fandom is rising alongside the ever-increasing salary cap.
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