from Lyle Richardson at The Hockey News,

Entering the NHL off-season, it appears the league’s projected increase in the salary cap to $74 million could fall short.

Each year, the NHLPA votes on approving a five-percent escalator clause. If the players vote against it this year, the cap ceiling could drop. Last Saturday, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reported the cap could fall to under $70 million.

The New York Post’s Larry Brooks cites a source with ties to the PA claiming the cap would drop to $69.3 million if the players reject the escalator. If they approve it, the ceiling rises to $72.8 million.

An increase in the cap mean higher escrow clawbacks in 2016-17 from the players’ salaries. However, Brooks points out it also means teams have more money to invest in new contracts and protects against “cap-necessitated buyouts and waivers.” He claims the PA is expected to approve the escalator clause.

Jared Clinton notes a decline or a marginal increase in the cap ceiling will have consequences for clubs squeezed for cap space. He singled out the Pittsburgh Penguins, Los Angeles Kings, Chicago Blackhawks and Columbus Blue Jackets.

With over $73.9 million invested in 22 players, the Penguins could end up over the cap ceiling. Fortunately, they only have depth players such as Beau Bennett, Justin Schultz and Ben Lovejoy to re-sign. They’ll also get $3.75 million of salary cap relief when 2016-17 begins by placing all-but-retired left winger Pascal Dupuis on long-term injured reserve.

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