That is why they have escrow. And the amount owed, if at all, has yet to be determined.
? And if it goes over the 14%holdback. You do realize they still owe it right? It’s 50/50. It’s not
“Owners can get a maximum of 14% back”
it’s pretty simple. The owners have paid 2.5 billion in salaries. That means the HRR must be 5 billion. IF the NHL only makes 3.5-4 billion. The players owe money back. The NHLPA has said for players to expect an extra 21% escrow if the League shuts down for the year. They owe that money. This year. Not next.
scenario 1: worst case. Season is cancelled. NHL loses their shirt. Claws back as much as they can.
And the players make a payment plan or pay all upfront.
Scenario 2: the NHL starts back up. And the league makes as much money as they can. If escrow covers it they cover it.
the cap could remain flat for next year. But all that will mean is that the owners will owe the players next year if the HRR exceeds the cap.
your weird scenario of the cap dropping, which as never happened in practice. And compliance buyouts without salary rollback/prorated hits has also never happened. Ever.