11 Hockey Players Cashing the Biggest Paychecks in 2025
Top hockey players are not just lighting up the scoreboard but also raking in impressive paychecks. Stars like Auston Matthews and Nathan MacKinnon are leading the pack when it comes to earnings in 2025, with contracts that really showcase their talent on the ice. We’re taking a closer look at the NHL players who are earning the biggest salaries and celebrating the amazing rewards that come with outstanding performance.
Auston Matthews – $16.7 Million
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Auston Matthews, the dynamic center for the Toronto Maple Leafs, leads the NHL’s 2025 salary rankings with a $16.7 million paycheck. That’s not surprising, considering his exceptional goal-scoring ability. Auston has consistently been among the league’s top performers while securing multiple Rocket Richard Trophies and a reputation as an elite forward.
Nathan MacKinnon – $16.5 Million
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Nathan MacKinnon, the electrifying center for the Colorado Avalanche, commands a $16.5 million salary. He’s celebrated for his blazing speed and has been instrumental in the Avalanche’s success. He even earned a Hart Trophy as the league’s Most Valuable Player and led his team deep into the playoffs.
Elias Pettersson – $14.5 Million
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Elias Pettersson has become a cornerstone for the Canucks, who’s leading the team in points and playing a pivotal role in their offensive strategies throughout the season. The skilled center for the Vancouver Canucks, earns $14.5 million.
William Nylander – $13.5 Million
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William Nylander, the talented winger for the Toronto Maple Leafs, secured a $13.5 million salary in 2025. He’s renowned for his smooth skating and scoring touch. He also contributed significantly to the Maple Leafs’ top-six forward group and power-play units.
Jake Guentzel – $13.2 Million
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Jake Guentzel, now skating for the Tampa Bay Lightning, brings in $13.26 million. Thanks to his versatility and scoring ability, Jake has seamlessly integrated into the Lightning’s lineup by providing offensive depth and experience to a team with championship aspirations.
David Pastrňák – $13 Million
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Affectionately known as “Pasta,” David Pastrňák is celebrated for his goal-scoring prowess and dynamic play. He consistently ranks among the league’s top scorers and energizes the Bruins’ offense. The prolific right winger for the Boston Bruins earns a $13 million salary in 2025.
Rasmus Dahlin – $13 Million
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Rasmus Dahlin, the standout defenseman for the Buffalo Sabres, also earns a $13 million paycheck. As a former first-overall draft pick, Rasmus has developed into a top-tier blueliner who contributes both offensively and defensively and serves as a key piece in the Sabres’ rebuilding efforts.
Dougie Hamilton – $12.6 Million
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Known for his offensive contributions from the blue line and solid defensive play, Dougie Hamilton has been a pivotal figure in the Devils’ lineup. The skilled defenseman for the New Jersey Devils earns $12.6 million.
Seth Jones – $12.5 Million
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Seth Jones, anchoring the Chicago Blackhawks’ defense, receives a $12.5 million salary. As a minute-munching blueliner, Seth brings a combination of size, skill, and leadership to the Blackhawks.
Alex Pietrangelo – $12.5 Million
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Alex Pietrangelo, the veteran defenseman for the Vegas Golden Knights, will also earn $12.5 million in 2025. This two-time Stanley Cup champion provides leadership and experience and plays a crucial role in the Golden Knights’ defensive corps.
Sebastian Aho – $12 Million
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With his speed and offensive creativity, Sebastian Aho has been a consistent point producer. He leads the Hurricanes in scoring and plays a key role in their playoff pursuits. The dynamic center for the Carolina Hurricanes commands a $12 million salary.
Aleksander Barkov – $12 Million
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Aleksander Barkov, the two-way center and captain of the Florida Panthers, earns $12 million. Aleksander has received the Selke Trophy and continues to be a driving force behind the Panthers’ success.
Adam Fox – $12 Million
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Adam Fox, the elite defenseman for the New York Rangers, also earns $12 million. As a Norris Trophy winner, he is celebrated for his exceptional vision and playmaking abilities from the blue line,
Brayden Point – $12 Million
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Playoff heroics and consistent scoring–Brayden Point has been instrumental in the Lightning’s championship runs, providing leadership and offensive firepower. The clutch center for the Tampa Bay Lightning earns $12 million.
Darnell Nurse – $12 Million
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Darnell Nurse, the stalwart defenseman for the Edmonton Oilers, is set to receive a $12 million salary in 2025. He logs heavy minutes, contributes on both ends of the ice, and brings a physical edge. His durability and leadership make him a foundational piece of Edmonton’s defensive identity.