Hope you're right about the #.
Just as a FYI - but Seattle revenue would only increase the cap if they brought in more than the league average HRR. (In other words the HRR goes up, but we're dividing by 32 teams now instead of 31).
Good point with Seattle. However, I believe they are a 10th in franchise value and also revenue they brought in last year, so I think they will push it up slightly. Lots of buzz in that city for Hockey and I don't see that fading away.
I think how much the cap grows will depend on a few factors:
* When will the NHPA outstanding balance be paid? Half way through this season, 3/4? Or will it take the entire season? If it's half way or 3/4 and the extra revenue exceeds the 6% escrow amount, the difference gets pushed into next year's revenue.
* How much extra revenue is Seattle brining in? Doesn't look they will drag it down at this stage. They brought in $191M in revenue which is close to the Devils, Knights, Caps, Flyers, Wings. In Comparison, the Rangers were 1st with $249M. Leafs and Habs are $248M and $239M. Seattle is a succuss no doubt.
* How much extra revenue is the new US TV deals brining in? The bankruptcy of Bally Sports Regional Networks has affected 12 NHL teams. This part is the most unknown in terms of how much this affects overall revenue.
* Inflation. Prior to Covid in early 2020, reports indicated the cap for 20/21 would be $85M - $88M range. Covid derailed is shortly after. Ever since allowing fans back in the seats, all reports indicate revenue has come back more than expected and they are ahead of their projections in terms of how fast the NHLPA outstanding balance would be paid off.
I'm willing to bet the cap will be $88M - $90M range. Something we don't know today would have to pop up to derail it.