Overview

• The league and union agreed to a rolling CBA rollout that brings the playoff salary-cap system into effect for the 2026 Stanley Cup playoffs and applies in-season LTIR relief rules during 2025–26.
• Before each playoff game, teams must submit a dressed roster whose combined cap hits plus any dead cap are at or below the preceding regular season’s upper limit, with scratches and injured players excluded.
• PuckPedia reports that performance bonuses on entry-level, 35-plus, or other bonus-eligible contracts will not count toward playoff cap calculations under the new system.
• Contracts signed through Sept. 15, 2026 can follow the existing rules, while deals dated Sept. 16, 2026 or later will be limited to a maximum of seven years for re-signings and six years for external free agents.
• Player dress-code requirements are removed immediately, allowing more latitude in attire and endorsements, including wine and spirits.