Kirill Kaprizov set to reshape NHL pay scale with upcoming extension talks
Kirill Kaprizov set to reshape NHL pay scale with upcoming extension talks (Image Source: Getty Images)
Minnesota Wild
superstar Kirill Kaprizov is going into a gigantic offseason not only for himself but for the entire league. With just one year remaining on his existing deal, the franchise superstar winger is now available for an extension. And if rumors are accurate, he may be set to sign the largest contract in
NHL history
. Following an excellent 2024–25 season despite injuries, the Wild are prepared to make a major investment to retain their top player in the long term.
Kirill Kaprizov destined for a huge payday in Minnesota
Even with missing out on a hunk of the season, injuries couldn't stop Kirill Kaprizov from being a game-breaker for the Minnesota Wild. He continued to post great numbers and helped lead the team into the playoffs, even though the stint was shorter than desired. Now, the Wild are getting set to reward their leading scorer with potentially the most lucrative contract in league history.
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Kirill Kaprizov is earning $9 million annually, but NHL insider Elliotte Friedman says that could increase substantially. On the 32 Thoughts podcast, Friedman mentioned that there is a lot of belief around the league that he will be the highest-paid player when his new contract is inked.
That would involve overtaking Leon Draisaitl's new eight-year deal that has an average annual value (AAV) of $14 million, but it begins in 2025–26. It would be a risky attempt, but the Wild have enough cap space to pull it off. The pricey buyouts for Zach Parise and Ryan Suter are decreasing at last, creating around $13 million of cap space.
The NHL's salary cap is also going up over the next few years, providing teams with more room to make large offers. Minnesota will spend much of that money securing Kirill Kaprizov, who has become the face of the franchise since joining in 2020.
Despite offseason whispers that Kaprizov could listen to a change of scenery, Wild owner Craig Leipold has been blunt that no organization will outbid Minnesota for their star forward. The team knows how much they value him, both on the ice and as a leader in the locker room.
Kirill Kaprizov could sign largest NHL contract amid strong support from Minnesota management
Kirill Kaprizov's potential contract isn't the only gaudy narrative this summer. Edmonton's star Connor McDavid is also slated for an extension and could potentially drive salary thresholds even higher. But insiders assume McDavid's contract could fall after Kaprizov's contract, paving the way for the next market precedent.
Either way, Minnesota fans have reason to be excited. With a solid foundation of young skill and a superstar in Kaprizov returning, the Wild are setting themselves up for a rosy future and they're willing to open their wallets to get it done.
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