2014-15 NHL Salary Cap: $71M

The salary cap is soaring to $71 million for the 2014-15 NHL season. It is going to rise 11.9% from the current cap of $64.3 million. Why the large increase in salary cap?

The salary cap is tied to league revenues, which have increased. The league is recovering nicely after the lockout with six outdoor games on the schedule. This season revenues are projected to reach $3.6 billion.

The 12-year, $5.2 billion Canadian television and multi-media rights deal between Rogers Communications and the NHL begins next season. Trades are expected to skyrocket in 2014-15 as General Managers have more space to take on player salaries.