The NHL has entered an era where elite performance is rewarded like never before. For the 2025–26 season, player salaries have reached historic highs, with multiple stars earning well over $15 million per year, reflecting the league’s rising revenue, global viewership, and competitive market for top talent.
The latest contracts tell a compelling tale about value in modern hockey, from game-changing goaltenders to generational scorers and franchise defenseman. These numbers go beyond goals and assists; they represent leadership, consistency, and long-term impact on a franchise’s success. In this blog, we break down the highest-paid NHL players by salary, exploring who tops the list and why teams are investing so heavily in them.
Top 15 Highest-Paid NHL Players by Salary (2025-26):
NHL salaries at the top level reflect more than just goals or saves; they represent long-term value, leadership, and consistent elite performance. As league revenues rise, teams are investing heavily in players who can shape outcomes across entire seasons. This list highlights where franchises are placing their biggest financial bets.
1. Leon Draisaitl
| Team | Edmonton Oilers |
| Age | 30 |
| Net Worth | $80 M |
| Salary | $16.5 M |
Leon Draisaitl leads the league as one of the highest-paid NHL players, a distinction earned through sustained elite scoring and playmaking. He signed a long-term extension that locks in one of hockey’s richest contracts. Off the ice, endorsements add to his income through global brand partnerships. His role as the offensive centerpiece of the Oilers makes him indispensable. Draisaitl consistently ranks among league leaders in goals and points.
2. Nathan MacKinnon
| Team | Colorado Avalanche |
| Age | 30 |
| Net Worth | ~$70 M |
| Salary | ~$16.05 M |
Nathan MacKinnon is considered one of the most complete and powerful centers in the NHL. His eight-year extension rewards elite point production and leadership. Off the ice, he earns from sponsorships with major brands. MacKinnon’s aggressive skating and playmaking make him a perennial All-Star. His combined on-ice performance and earnings place him near the top of NHL pay charts.
3. Igor Shesterkin
| Team | New York Rangers |
| Age | 29 |
| Net Worth | ~$45 M |
| Salary | ~$15.825 M |
Igor Shesterkin is one of the most decorated goaltenders in the NHL and ranks among the highest-paid NHL players, known for his calm, methodical saves under pressure. His contract is among the richest ever awarded to a goalie, reflecting his elite consistency. Shesterkin’s shot-stopping ability carried the Rangers deep into the playoffs in recent years. He anchors his team’s defense with leadership and reliability.
4. Auston Matthews
Auston Matthews is among the NHL’s most prolific goal scorers and a franchise centerpiece for Toronto. His scoring ability and consistency make him one of the most impactful forwards in hockey. Beyond salary, his endorsement portfolio includes major international brands. Matthews has one of the league’s richest contracts, keeping him in Toronto long-term. His leadership both on and off the ice makes him a key face of the NHL.
5. Mikko Rantanen
| Team | Dallas Stars |
| Age | 29 |
| Net Worth | ~$55 M |
| Salary | ~$15 M |
Mikko Rantanen blends size, skill, and scoring touch as one of the league’s premier wingers. His contract rewards consistent offensive threat and leadership. Rantanen’s versatility allows him to play multiple offensive roles. He also benefits from select endorsement deals. His production has helped every team he’s played for reach competitive levels.
6. Mitch Marner
| Team | Vegas Golden Knights |
| Age | 28 |
| Net Worth | ~$65 M |
| Salary | ~$15 M |
Mitch Marner is known for his elite vision and playmaking ability with a high assist rate. His long-term contract reflects his importance as a creative forward. Marner brings value through consistent scoring and situational awareness. He also earns from personal endorsements and local market partnerships. His trade to Vegas marked a new chapter with continued offensive production.
7. David Pastrnak
| Team | Boston Bruins |
| Age | 29 |
| Net Worth | ~$65 M |
| Salary | ~$12.5 M |
David Pastrnak is known for his lethal wrist shot and consistent point production. His contract reflects his long-term value as one of Boston’s leading scorers. Off-ice endorsements and community engagements enhance his earnings. Pastrnak’s ability to perform in high-pressure moments is well-documented. He remains a central figure in the Bruins’ offensive strategy.
8. Connor McDavid
| Team | Edmonton Oilers |
| Age | 28 |
| Net Worth | $70 M |
| Salary | ~$12.5 M |
Connor McDavid is widely regarded as hockey’s premier talent and one of the greatest players of his generation, firmly placing him among the highest-paid NHL players. His contract extension solidifies his status as a top-paid star alongside Draisaitl. McDavid’s elite speed and playmaking ability make him a perennial MVP contender. He also commands significant off-ice sponsorship deals that boost his income. His leadership as Oilers captain further enhances his value to the franchise.
9. Rasmus Dahlin
| Team | Buffalo Sabres |
| Age | 25 |
| Net Worth | ~$35 M |
| Salary | ~$12 M |
Rasmus Dahlin has established himself at a young age as one of the NHL’s elite defensemen. His contract places him among the highest-paid NHL players, reflecting his ability to generate offense from the blue line. Dahlin’s skating and puck movement rank among the best for defenders. He plays a central role at even strength and on the power play. His maturity beyond his years adds long-term value to Buffalo’s core.
10. Artemi Panarin
| Team | New York Rangers |
| Age | 34 |
| Net Worth | ~$50 M |
| Salary | ~$11.64 M |
Artemi Panarin is one of the league’s most skilled playmakers and a key offensive driver for the Rangers. As one of the highest-paid NHL players, his experience and consistency keep him in elite company. He reached a major scoring milestone and continues to contribute at a high level. Off the ice, his endorsement portfolio strengthens his overall earnings. Panarin’s creativity and leadership anchor New York’s top lines.
11. Elias Pettersson
| Team | Vancouver Canucks |
| Age | 27 |
| Net Worth | ~$40 M |
| Salary | ~$11.6 M |
Elias Pettersson is a dynamic center with excellent vision and scoring instincts. His contract reflects his role as a franchise cornerstone in Vancouver. Pettersson’s ability to control game flow makes him crucial in tight matches. He also earns additional income through select sponsorships. His youthful energy and elite skill project long-term value.
12. William Nylander
| Team | Toronto Maple Leafs |
| Age | 29 |
| Net Worth | ~$45 M |
| Salary | $11.5 M |
William Nylander stands out for his exceptional puck handling and offensive creativity. His contract rewards his consistent performance in clutch situations. Nylander also earns from endorsement opportunities in North America and Europe. He plays a key role alongside other Maple Leafs stars. His presence on the power play makes him a scoring threat every game.
13. Drew Doughty
| Team | Los Angeles Kings |
| Age | 36 |
| Net Worth | ~$50 M |
| Salary | ~$11 M |
Drew Doughty is one of the most respected defensemen of his generation. His contract reflects his two-way prowess and longevity. Doughty’s leadership is a key factor in the Kings’ defensive schemes. He continues to log heavy minutes in all situations. His reputation as a Stanley Cup champion enhances both his playing and endorsement value.
14. Evan Bouchard
| Team | Edmonton Oilers |
| Age | 26 |
| Net Worth | ~$25 M |
| Salary | ~$10.5 M |
Evan Bouchard has quickly risen as a top offensive defenseman in the league. His accurate passing and offensive instincts make him a power-play weapon. Bouchard’s contract reflects his growing role on the Oilers’ backend. He pairs well with veteran stars, creating scoring opportunities from the blue line. His youth and skill project long-term upside.
15. Jonathan Huberdeau
| Team | Calgary Flames |
| Age | 32 |
| Net Worth | ~$45 M |
| Salary | ~$10.5 M |
Jonathan Huberdeau is a veteran winger known for his playmaking and vision. His contract reflects sustained offensive contributions across multiple teams. Huberdeau continues to be a stabilizing presence in the Flames’ forward group. He also earns from local endorsements and hockey appearances. His experience adds depth and leadership to Calgary’s roster.
Conclusion:
The highest-paid NHL players aren’t just top scorers or star goaltenders; they are the backbone of their teams, leaders who set the tone both on and off the ice. Their contracts reflect not only extraordinary skill and consistent performance but also their long-term impact on franchise success and fan engagement.
From record-breaking goal scorers to defensemen who control the pace of the game, these athletes define what it means to be elite in modern hockey. Examining their salaries offers a fascinating glimpse into how the league values talent, leadership, and potential. As the NHL continues to grow globally, these players will remain at the forefront, shaping the game and inspiring the next generation of stars.
FAQs
1. Who is the highest-paid NHL player in 2025–26?
Leon Draisaitl tops the list for the 2025–26 season, earning approximately $16.5 million, reflecting his elite scoring ability, playmaking skills, and key role with the Edmonton Oilers.
2. How are NHL player salaries determined?
Salaries for the highest-paid NHL players are influenced by performance, experience, position, market demand, and the league salary cap. Leadership, consistency, and impact in crucial games also play a key role.
3. Which positions tend to earn the most in the NHL?
Top-paid forwards, franchise centers, and elite goaltenders typically command the highest salaries, while high-performing defensemen with strong offensive and leadership skills also rank near the top.
4. Do endorsements significantly add to NHL players’ income?
Yes. Many top NHL players earn millions through endorsements, sponsorships, and brand deals, which can sometimes rival their on-ice salaries, especially for highly marketable stars.
5. Why are NHL salaries rising year after year?
Salaries for the highest-paid NHL players rise due to growing league revenues, larger TV deals, global popularity, and competition among teams to secure elite talent within the salary cap limits.
