The NHL just made a major change that could reshape the Stanley Cup Playoffs

The NHL is shaking things up before the puck even drops this season, and one of the biggest changes could directly alter how contenders like the Dallas Stars approach their playoff runs.

According to a report from the Associated Press, the league has agreed with the NHLPA to implement a playoff salary cap beginning immediately, rather than waiting for the new collective bargaining agreement in 2026.

The decision comes after years of controversy around teams exploiting the lack of a postseason cap, with stars returning from long-term injured reserve just in time for Game 1. Chicago did it with Patrick Kane in 2015, Tampa Bay with Nikita Kucherov in 2021, Vegas with Mark Stone in 2023, and Florida with Matthew Tkachuk in 2024, all examples that fueled the debate.

You can read the full report from NBC Sports here.

How a playoff salary cap could impact the Dallas Stars' Stanley Cup hopes

Teams will now be required to submit a cap-compliant 20-player roster for every playoff game. For the Dallas Stars, a team already walking a tightrope with their cap space, this creates an extra layer of pressure.

Dallas has been a contender for three straight years thanks to its depth, but losing flexibility could force tough lineup choices. If injuries pile up in the spring, Jim Nill's front office won't be able to stash players on LTIR and bring them back for the postseason.

As one analyst noted,

"This rule ensures the team you see in April is truly the team that earned its spot in the playoffs." Another added: "It prevents contenders from loading up at the deadline and essentially skirting the system."

For a roster featuring big contracts like Jason Robertson, Roope Hintz, and Mikko Rantanen, the Stars may need to rely even more on prospects such as Mavrik Bourque and Thomas Harley staying healthy and cost-efficient.

Personally, I think this could end up helping Dallas in the long run, their depth has been built through drafting and development rather than splashy cap maneuvers.