In the Absolute maximum ratings the Output clamping current is given for the condition "Vo<0".(SCES197N )
This would indicate that there is no clamping diode to Vcc.
The same applies to 74LVC1G14 or 74LVC1G125 etc.
In Nexperia's corresponding datasheet (Dual unbuffered inverter (nexperia.com)) the text is the same, but Fig. 3 shows a clamping diode to Vcc at the output.
But Nexperia's datasheet for the ..125 (Bus buffer/line driver; 3-state (nexperia.com)) specifies the Output clamping current for "VO > VCC or VO < 0 V" (without explaining picture), indicating a diode to Vcc.
This is the same what the TI datasheet says for 74LVC14, but not for the 74LVCU04, but Nexperia says it also for the 74LVCU04.
Actually I assume that LVC logic devices from these two manufacturers are created equal (essentially).
I do guess that there is a clamping diode at the output to Vcc and that the data sheet wording is unfortunate, but I am not sure any more.
Could it be that this is different for LVC and tiny LVC?
Could it be that this is different case by case?
Does the diode make sense for an output that is constantly on, to begin with? (IMHO it does in case of power-down.)
Properly speaking the capability of the output clamping to Vcc is unspecified.
What's the ground truth actually here? Who is going to clean up?