Highest Paid NHL Hockey Players in 2024

When it comes to professional sports, the athletes who excel in their respective fields are often rewarded handsomely. In the world of ice hockey, the National Hockey League (NHL) is no exception. The highest paid NHL hockey players in 2024 are earning jaw-dropping salaries that may surprise you. But who exactly are these top earners, and which player claims the title of the highest paid NHL hockey player in 2024?

Join us as we dive into the contracts and salaries of the elite players in the NHL. We’ll explore their impressive earnings and shed light on the athletes who command astronomical salaries. Get ready to uncover the names of the highest paid NHL hockey players and discover the jaw-dropping figures that dominate the league in 2024.

Key Takeaways:

The NHL is home to some of the highest paid athletes in professional sports.
The top earners in the NHL command astronomical salaries, reflecting their exceptional talent and contributions to their teams.
Salary figures for NHL players are based on the average annual value (AAV) of their contracts for the 2023-24 season.

Nathan MacKinnon of the Colorado Avalanche claims the title of the highest paid NHL hockey player in 2024.
Other notable names on the list include Connor McDavid, Artemi Panarin, Auston Matthews, and more.

Nathan MacKinnon, C, Avalanche

Nathan MacKinnon, center for the Colorado Avalanche, is the highest paid NHL player in 2024. He signed an eight-year contract extension with the Avalanche worth $100.8 million, earning him an average annual value (AAV) of $12.6 million.

MacKinnon’s impressive performance on the ice has not only earned him a massive paycheck but also helped lead his team to success. He played a pivotal role in the Avalanche’s journey to becoming a Stanley Cup champion.

As one of the league’s top talents, MacKinnon’s skill and dedication have not gone unnoticed. The Avalanche has invested heavily in him, recognizing his invaluable contributions to the team’s success.

Despite being the highest paid NHL player, MacKinnon continues to demonstrate his worth through his exceptional performance and leadership on and off the ice. His achievements and contributions solidify his position as one of the NHL’s elite players.

Player
Team
Contract Value
AAV

Nathan MacKinnon
Colorado Avalanche
$100.8 million
$12.6 million

Connor McDavid
Edmonton Oilers
$100 million
$12.5 million

Artemi Panarin
New York Rangers
$93.14 million
$11.642 million

Auston Matthews
Toronto Maple Leafs
$93.6 million
$11.64 million

Erik Karlsson
San Jose Sharks
$92 million
$11.5 million

Connor McDavid, C, Oilers

Despite being widely regarded as the best player in the NHL, Connor McDavid is the second-highest paid player in 2024. He has an average annual value (AAV) of $12.5 million with the Edmonton Oilers.

McDavid’s incredible speed, skill, and vision on the ice have earned him numerous accolades throughout his career. He has won the Hart Trophy as the league’s most valuable player twice and has also captured the Art Ross Trophy as the NHL’s leading scorer on multiple occasions.

Known for his exceptional playmaking ability and scoring touch, McDavid consistently dominates the game with his unmatched speed and agility.

Here is a breakdown of Connor McDavid’s career statistics:

Season
Team
Games Played
Goals
Assists
Points

2015-2016
Oilers
45
16
32
48

2016-2017
Oilers
82
30
70
100

2017-2018
Oilers
82
41
67
108

2018-2019
Oilers
78
41
75
116

2019-2020
Oilers
64
34
63
97

2020-2021
Oilers
56
33
72
105

2021-2022
Oilers
82
50
72
122

2022-2023
Oilers
82
57
92
149

McDavid’s exceptional performance on the ice justifies his status as one of the highest paid players in the NHL. He continues to lead the Edmonton Oilers to success and solidify his place among the league’s elite.

Artemi Panarin, LW, Rangers

Artemi Panarin, the talented left winger for the New York Rangers, secures the third spot on the list of highest paid NHL players in 2024, with an average annual value (AAV) of $11.642 million. Known for his exceptional skill and playmaking abilities, Panarin has been a crucial player in the Rangers’ rebuild, making a significant impact on and off the ice.

Since joining the Rangers in the 2019-2020 season, Panarin has consistently showcased his scoring prowess, frequently finding the back of the net and creating scoring opportunities for his teammates. With his remarkable speed, agility, and hockey intelligence, Panarin has earned the respect and admiration of teammates, coaches, and fans.

Not only does Panarin excel in scoring goals, but he also possesses exceptional vision and passing ability, enabling him to set up his teammates for goals. His offensive contributions have been a driving force behind the Rangers’ success, making him a valuable asset to the team.

Off the ice, Panarin’s positive attitude, strong work ethic, and dedication to the game serve as an inspiration to his teammates. He leads by example and is often commended for his professionalism and commitment to both the sport and the community.

Artemi Panarin’s impact goes beyond his on-ice performance. His influence extends to the development of young players and the overall culture of the Rangers organization. Panarin’s presence has been instrumental in fostering a winning mentality within the team.

As one of the highest paid players in the NHL, Panarin has proven his worth with his exceptional skills and contributions to the New York Rangers. With his continued success, fans and hockey enthusiasts eagerly await his future performances and the positive impact he will undoubtedly continue to make both on and off the ice.

Auston Matthews, C, Maple Leafs

When it comes to the highest paid NHL players in 2024, Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs is a force to be reckoned with. With an average annual value (AAV) of $11.64 million, Matthews has secured his spot as one of the top earners in the league.

But it’s not just his salary that sets Matthews apart. He has consistently proven himself on the ice, showcasing his incredible skill and scoring prowess season after season. As a center for the Maple Leafs, Matthews has become a standout player, leading the team to victory and capturing the attention of hockey fans worldwide.

Since being drafted by the Maple Leafs in 2016, Matthews has made a name for himself with his impressive goal-scoring ability. In the 2022-23 season alone, he tallied 42 goals, securing the Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy as the league’s top goal scorer.

“Auston Matthews is a game-changer. His ability to find the back of the net and create scoring opportunities is unmatched,” says Toronto Maple Leafs coach, Sheldon Keefe.

Matthews’ impact on the team extends beyond his offensive prowess. His leadership and dedication to the game have earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches.

“Auston is not only an incredible talent on the ice, but he’s also a leader in the locker room. He sets the standard for our team and inspires us to strive for greatness,” says Maple Leafs defenseman, Morgan Rielly.

As one of the highest paid NHL players, Auston Matthews continues to push the boundaries of what is possible on the ice. With his unmatched skill and unwavering drive, he has established himself as a key figure in the success of the Toronto Maple Leafs.

So, as the 2023-24 season unfolds, hockey fans can expect to witness more incredible performances from Matthews as he solidifies his status as one of the top players in the NHL.

Erik Karlsson, D, Sharks

Erik Karlsson, the defenseman for the San Jose Sharks, is the highest paid defenseman on the list with an AAV of $11.5 million. While his recent performance has faced some criticism due to injuries and inconsistent play, he still commands a substantial salary.

Player
Team
AAV (in million)

Erik Karlsson
San Jose Sharks
$11.5

David Pastrnak, RW, Bruins

David Pastrnak, a talented right wing player for the Boston Bruins, is one of the highest paid NHL players in 2024. With an average annual value (AAV) of $11.25 million, Pastrnak’s contract extension worth $90 million over eight years cemented his status as one of the league’s top earners.

Pastrnak’s exceptional skills and contributions to the Bruins have made him a prized asset on the ice. His ability to score goals and create scoring opportunities has made him a key player in the team’s success.

Pastrnak’s commitment to excellence and his dedication to the game are evident in his performance on the ice. His speed, agility, and scoring prowess make him a player to watch, both for Bruins fans and hockey enthusiasts.
– NHL Analyst

Throughout his career, Pastrnak has showcased remarkable consistency in his performance, earning him numerous accolades and recognition. He has represented the Bruins in multiple All-Star Games and has been a vital contributor to the team’s playoff runs.

In addition to his on-ice achievements, Pastrnak is also actively involved in charitable work, using his platform to make a positive impact in the community.

David Pastrnak’s Career Highlights:

Selected 25th overall by the Boston Bruins in the 2014 NHL Draft
Named to multiple NHL All-Star Games
Recipient of the Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy for being the league’s leading goal scorer in the 2019-2020 season
Contributed to the Bruins’ run to the Stanley Cup Finals in the 2018-2019 season

Season
Team
Games Played
Goals
Assists
Points

2014-2015
Boston Bruins
46
10
17
27

2015-2016
Boston Bruins
51
15
11
26

2016-2017
Boston Bruins
75
34
36
70

2017-2018
Boston Bruins
82
35
45
80

2018-2019
Boston Bruins
66
38
43
81

2019-2020
Boston Bruins
70
48
47
95

John Tavares, C, Maple Leafs

John Tavares, center for the Toronto Maple Leafs, is also among the highest paid NHL players in 2024. With an average annual value (AAV) of $11 million, Tavares shares the seventh spot on the list. Tavares has been a consistent and reliable contributor to the Leafs’ lineup, bringing his skill, leadership, and experience to the team.

Since joining the Maple Leafs in 2018, Tavares has made a significant impact on the ice, both offensively and defensively. His scoring ability, playmaking skills, and strong two-way game have solidified his position as one of the top centers in the NHL.

Tavares’ leadership qualities are evident both on and off the ice, making him an asset to the Maple Leafs organization. His experience and strong work ethic serve as an inspiration to his teammates, and he leads by example both in practice and during games.

As a highly skilled and respected player, Tavares continues to thrive in the NHL and remains a vital part of the Toronto Maple Leafs’ roster. His contributions on and off the ice make him a deserving addition to the list of highest paid NHL players in 2024.

Drew Doughty, D, Kings

Drew Doughty of the Los Angeles Kings is one of the highest paid NHL players in 2024. With an average annual value (AAV) of $11 million, Doughty shares the seventh spot on the list of highest paid players in the league.

Doughty’s offensive production has been commendable, contributing to the Kings’ scoring drive and overall performance on the ice. As a defenseman, he brings a unique skill set and playmaking ability to the team, making him a valuable asset in both the offensive and defensive zones.

However, there are some concerns about the overall value Doughty provides compared to his salary. While his offensive contributions are notable, there have been debates about his defensive abilities and consistency in recent seasons. Critics argue that his defensive play has not lived up to expectations, questioning whether his salary aligns with his overall performance.

Highest Paid NHL Players in 2024
Team
AAV (in million USD)

Nathan MacKinnon
Colorado Avalanche
12.6

Connor McDavid
Edmonton Oilers
12.5

Artemi Panarin
New York Rangers
11.642

Auston Matthews
Toronto Maple Leafs
11.64

Erik Karlsson
San Jose Sharks
11.5

David Pastrnak
Boston Bruins
11.25

John Tavares
Toronto Maple Leafs
11

Drew Doughty
Los Angeles Kings
11

Mitch Marner
Toronto Maple Leafs
10.903

Despite the ongoing discussions surrounding his salary, Doughty remains a key player for the Kings and continues to make significant contributions to the team’s success. As one of the highest paid NHL players, he carries a heavy responsibility to perform at a consistently high level and help lead the Kings to victory.

Mitch Marner, RW, Maple Leafs

Mitch Marner, the talented right winger for the Toronto Maple Leafs, secures his place among the highest paid NHL players of 2024 with an average annual value (AAV) of $10.903 million.

Marner has proven to be a consistent force on the ice, consistently putting up impressive point totals and making a significant impact for his team. Known for his exceptional playmaking ability and agility, Marner has become an integral part of the Leafs’ offense.

His contributions to the team’s success extend beyond the stat sheet. Marner’s hockey sense and strong work ethic make him a valuable asset, consistently creating scoring opportunities for his teammates and leading by example on and off the ice.

As one of the highest paid NHL players, Marner continues to showcase his skills and cement his status as a key player for the Toronto Maple Leafs, electrifying fans with his dynamic style of play.

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