Articles / Can the Jets & Senators Navigate the NHL’s Rising Salary Cap?

Can the Jets & Senators Navigate the NHL’s Rising Salary Cap?

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The Hockey Writers
Sep 12, 2025 7:00 PM

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As the NHL prepares for a rising salary cap, the Winnipeg Jets and Ottawa Senators are at a critical juncture in their development strategies. With the cap expected to increase significantly, teams will be looking to build competitive rosters while managing their finances wisely. The Jets, led by key figures like Mark Scheifele and Connor Hellebuyck, must navigate these waters carefully as they strive for playoff contention. Meanwhile, the Senators, featuring stars such as Brady Tkachuk and Tim Stützle, are in a position to capitalize on this shift to solidify their roster.

The Jets face challenges with several high-profile contracts, and decisions will need to be made about their core players. This includes evaluating the performance and future of their seasoned veterans, who play pivotal roles in the team's success. If they can structure their payroll effectively, Winnipeg has the potential to enhance their roster depth without compromising their star players.

Conversely, the Senators are in a more favorable situation, possessing young talent and a solid foundation for growth. With the salary cap increase, they might explore options to bolster their lineup further, reinforcing their ambitions for a playoff push. The blend of youth and experience could provide Ottawa the leverage needed to become a formidable opponent in the Eastern Conference. Both teams will need to judiciously assess their financial commitments in the context of this upcoming cap increase, setting the stage for a competitive and dynamic NHL landscape in the coming seasons.