NHL projects next season's salary cap to be $73M-$77M

NHL commissioner Gary Bettman and deputy commissioner Bill Daly announced Monday that next season's salary cap is expected to remain flat, depending on whether the NHLPA exercises its five percent growth escalator.

The salary cap for the 2016-17 season was set at $73 million, and Daly said it would grow to "$77 million and change" if the inflator is used by players.

Growing the cap also grows players' escrow, which has been an ongoing problem when it comes to collective bargaining between the NHL and NHLPA.

Daly said the NHL and its players will meet next week to discuss whether the escalator will be used.