Exploring the NHL's Top 5 Highest-Paid Players of 2024-25 and the Record-Breaking Contracts Driving the League's Growth
The NHL is experiencing a surge in growth, seeing record viewership during the Stanley Cup Finals and the first salary cap increase in five years.
This progress has sparked enthusiasm among fans and provided a boost for the league, as an extra $4.5 million has been added to the salary cap for teams to utilize in constructing their rosters.
This increase is crucial as the league grows, with the NHL Draft in Las Vegas serving as a significant event demonstrating the sport’s increasing popularity.
The cap hike could mean bigger deals for the highest-earning NHL players. These top-paid athletes in the league are not only leading their teams to success on the ice but also reaping the rewards of their lucrative contracts.
Below is an in-depth examination of the top five NHL players who are paid the most during the 2024-25 season, detailing how their contracts showcase their skills and worth in the league.
Team: Toronto Maple Leafs
Contract: Four-year, $53 million extension (Signed in 2023)
At the top of the list for NHL salaries is Auston Matthews, who earns $13.25 million each year, making him the highest-paid player in the league. The Maple Leafs center inked a huge $53 million contract extension last summer, securing his place in Toronto until 2028.
Selected as the top pick in 2016, Matthews has been a dominant force for the Maple Leafs, excelling both in scoring and in leading the team. During his tenure in Toronto, he has amassed a total of $60.9 million in earnings, solidifying his status as both a top player and a key financial asset for the team.
Team: Colorado Avalanche
Contract: Eight-year contract with $85.34 million signing bonus (Signed in 2022)
Nathan MacKinnon ranks in second place with a substantial salary of $12.6 million, establishing him as one of the top-paid centers in the league. In 2022, he signed an eight-year deal with an $85.34 million signing bonus, showcasing his importance to the Avalanche.
Recognized for his fast pace, talent, and ability to create plays, MacKinnon has established himself as a key player for Colorado. His role as a leader and his performance on the ice have consistently helped the Avalanche make it to the playoffs, demonstrating his value in terms of both skill and pay.
Team: Edmonton Oilers
Contract: Eight-year, $100 million (Fully guaranteed)
Ranked third in terms of salary, Connor McDavid is considered one of the most dynamic players in the league, earning $12.5 million. McDavid’s contract with the Oilers is for $100 million over eight years and ensures he will remain a key figure for the team in Edmonton.
Ever since he entered the NHL, he has consistently reshaped offensive strategies through his quickness and agility, now making $9 million above his initial contract salary. McDavid’s ability to consistently perform at a high level and his game-altering skill have not only endeared him to fans but also elevated him to the ranks of the NHL’s top earners.
Team: New York Rangers
Contract: Seven-year, $81.5 million (Signed in 2019)
Artemi Panarin is fourth in salary among the New York Rangers, making $11.64 million. The star winger for the Rangers agreed to a $81.5 million contract for seven years in 2019, following his time with the Chicago Blackhawks.
Panarin, recognized for his ability to score and create plays, has always performed well for New York. Panarin’s contract shows how crucial he is to the Rangers as they strive for a Stanley Cup, with him being a key part of their offense.
Team: Vancouver Canucks
Contract: Eight-year, $92.8 million extension (Signed in 2024)
Elias Pettersson of the Vancouver Canucks ranks fifth, making $11.6 million per year. Pettersson inked a significant contract extension in March 2024, securing his spot with the Canucks for an additional eight years with a total value of $92.8 million.
Since he became a member of Vancouver in 2018, he has earned $24.8 million and has established himself as one of the team’s most valuable players, recognized for his adaptable playing style and consistent performance. This recent agreement highlights his importance as a key player in Vancouver’s future strategies.
All date are coming from Spotrac
Image Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
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