32 Thoughts: The Podcast Can You Take the Cap Higher?
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Oct 6, 2025 Discover the latest on Connor McDavid's contract clarity and the potential rise of the NHL salary cap to unprecedented levels. The hosts explore the philosophical twists in Lane Hutson's negotiations and the implications of recent goalie waivers on team strategies. Catch insights on whether preseason games need a revamp after a brawl and celebrate Gavin McKenna's first NCAA goal. Finally, they preview team dynamics for the upcoming 2025-26 playoffs and answer listener questions about contract intricacies and revenue breakdowns.
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McDavid Likely Seeks Short, Winning-Focused Deal
- Elliotte Friedman expects Connor McDavid to provide clarity quickly, likely via a short-term extension that prioritizes winning over max term.
- He predicts the deal will be shorter and lower than many expect, possibly under four years and below $16M AAV.
Salary Cap Could Climb Above Projections
- The NHL salary cap may rise beyond public estimates, with sources mentioning $107M next season and even higher projections later.
- Friedman warns teams are already preparing for a materially larger cap and the league will update governors in December.
Contract Stalemate Is Philosophical, Not Dollar-Based
- Lane Hutson and Montreal stalled mainly over contract philosophy, not base dollars, particularly around RCAs and deferred money.
- Friedman believes both sides were near an eight-times-nine AAV region but need compromises on tax/deferred structure to close a deal.