Would it make a difference for the Washington Capitals if they could dress 19 or 20 players a night?
Zach Leach at Pro Hockey Rumors asks in general. Is there a reason teams should only dress 18 for a game? You can read his reasons and the honestly thoughtful comments over there.
An expansion to 19 or 20 active skaters would need to be agreed to by the NHL Players Association. An expansion would pressure owners to have another player under active contract, jumping from 23 to 24. Another contract, adjusting the salary cap, more money spent means this is a non-starter unless the NHLPA fails to demand an extra contract.