Who is the highest-paid NHL player? Connor McDavid, Artemi Panarin top list of highest earners

When it comes to professional ice hockey, talent and dedication are rewarded with victories on the ice and lucrative contracts off it.

As the NHL continues to grow in popularity and revenue, the salaries of its top players have skyrocketed, making them some of the highest-paid athletes in the world.

From dynamic goal scorers to stalwart defensemen and elite goaltenders, these players command top dollar for their exceptional skills and contributions to their teams.

In this article, we’ll delve into the top 10 highest-paid NHL players, showcasing the financial prowess of these ice hockey superstars. Also, make sure to check out the best betting sites in order to take part in betting on leagues such as the NHL.

Connor McDavid (Edmonton Oilers)

At the top of our list sits Connor McDavid, the electrifying center for the Edmonton Oilers. Widely regarded as one of the most talented players in the NHL, McDavid’s eight-year contract extension signed in 2017 boasts an average annual value (AAV) of $12.5 million.

Known for his blazing speed, exceptional playmaking abilities, and knack for finding the back of the net, McDavid’s on-ice performance matches his hefty paycheck, making him the undisputed face of the Oilers franchise and a perennial contender for league MVP honors.

In the hockey-crazed city of Toronto, Auston Matthews reigns supreme as the Maple Leafs’ premier goal-scoring machine. Signed to a five-year contract extension in 2019, Matthews earns an AAV of $11.634 million, solidifying his status as one of the highest-paid players in the NHL.

With a lethal shot, silky-smooth hands, and an unmatched scoring touch, Matthews has become a fan favorite in Toronto while propelling the Maple Leafs to new heights in their quest for Stanley Cup glory.

Artemi Panarin (New York Rangers)

The “Bread Man” himself, Artemi Panarin, commands attention wherever he goes, and his arrival in New York sparked a resurgence for the Rangers franchise.

Signed to a seven-year contract in 2019 with an AAV of $11.642 million, Panarin brings elite playmaking skills, dazzling puck-handling abilities, and infectious energy to the ice every night.

As one of the league’s top offensive threats, Panarin’s impact extends far beyond the scoresheet, making him worth every penny of his hefty salary.

When it comes to dynamic defensemen, Erik Karlsson stands tall among his peers. The two-time Norris Trophy winner signed an eight-year contract extension with the San Jose Sharks in 2019, boasting an AAV of $11.5 million.

Karlsson is a game-changer in every sense of the word, renowned for his slick skating, impeccable vision, and offensive prowess from the blue line.

Despite facing challenges with injuries in recent years, Karlsson’s value to the Sharks remains undeniable, cementing his status as one of the highest-paid blueliners in the NHL.

Carey Price (Montreal Canadiens)

In the pressure-cooker environment of Montreal, Carey Price is no stranger to lofty expectations, and his performance between the pipes has earned him a spot among the NHL’s elite goaltenders.

Signed to an eight-year contract extension in 2017 with an AAV of $10.5 million, Price’s calm demeanor, lightning-fast reflexes, and unparalleled consistency make him a cornerstone of the Canadiens franchise.

With numerous accolades to his name, including Vezina Trophies and Olympic gold medals, Price’s place among the highest-paid players in the NHL is well-deserved.

As the Toronto Maple Leafs captain, John Tavares brings leadership, skill, and a relentless work ethic to the ice every night.

Signed to a seven-year contract in 2018 with an AAV of $11 million, Tavares is a dynamic force at both ends of the rink, excelling in all situations and leading by example for his teammates.

With a knack for clutch goals and a tireless commitment to winning, Tavares’ impact extends far beyond his impressive statistics, making him a valuable asset to the Maple Leafs organization.

Jack Eichel (Buffalo Sabres)

Despite a tumultuous tenure with the Buffalo Sabres, Jack Eichel remains among the NHL’s most talented and highest-paid players.

Signed to an eight-year contract extension in 2017 with an AAV of $10 million, Eichel possesses a lethal combination of size, speed, and skill, making him a matchup nightmare for opposing teams.

While injuries have hampered his availability in recent seasons, Eichel’s potential to dominate the game when healthy is undeniable, cementing his status as a franchise player for the Sabres.

Nathan MacKinnon (Colorado Avalanche)

In the Mile High City of Denver, Nathan MacKinnon has emerged as the face of the Colorado Avalanche franchise and one of the NHL’s brightest young stars.

Signed to a seven-year contract extension in 2016 with an AAV of $6.3 million, MacKinnon’s value to the Avalanche goes beyond his impressive statistics, as he brings a combination of speed, skill, and tenacity to the ice every night.

With a relentless competitive spirit and a burning desire to win, MacKinnon’s impact on the Avalanche’s success cannot be overstated, making him one of the highest-paid players in the league.

Leon Draisaitl (Edmonton Oilers)

Teaming up with Connor McDavid in Edmonton, Leon Draisaitl forms one of the most dynamic duos in the NHL and commands a hefty salary to match his on-ice prowess.

Signed to an eight-year contract extension in 2017 with an AAV of $8.5 million, Draisaitl’s combination of size, skill, and hockey IQ makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

With a Hart Trophy and multiple 100-point seasons to his name, Draisaitl’s impact on the Oilers’ success cannot be overstated, solidifying his status as one of the highest-paid players in the NHL.

Patrick Kane (Chicago Blackhawks)

Rounding out our list is Patrick Kane, the dynamic winger for the Chicago Blackhawks and a perennial All-Star in the NHL.

Signed to an eight-year contract extension in 2014 with an AAV of $10.5 million, Kane’s exceptional skill set, hockey sense, and clutch performances have made him a fan favorite in Chicago and a nightmare for opposing goaltenders.

With multiple Stanley Cup championships and a Hart Trophy, Kane’s place among the highest-paid players in the NHL is well-deserved as he dazzles fans with his elite-level play.

Conclusion

In the high-stakes world of professional ice hockey, the top players command top dollar for their exceptional skills and contributions to their teams.

From dynamic goal scorers to stalwart defensemen and elite goaltenders, the highest-paid NHL players of 2022 showcase the incredible talent and dedication that defines the sport.

As the NHL continues to evolve and grow, these players will undoubtedly remain at the forefront, captivating fans with their electrifying performances and cementing their legacies as some of the greatest athletes in the world.