The NHL has seen a remarkable financial recovery, resulting in players receiving back a projected full 6% in escrow payments for the 2023-24 season, alongside an additional 1.5 to 2%, translating to about 101.5 to 102% of their salaries. Following higher revenue earnings, the league has canceled escrow payments for the remainder of the year, sharing profits with players as well.

As a result, the salary cap, which was previously estimated to rise to $93 million, is now set to increase significantly, potentially reaching $97 million for the 2025-26 season. This is particularly advantageous for the New York Islanders, who had been restricted under the current $88 million ceiling. This change enables them to retain key players like Brock Nelson and Kyle Palmieri while exploring the free-agent market in July.