Contract negotiations can be quite intricate. Some NHL players prefer to completely tune them out during the season, while others wish for a swift yet fair resolution, staying informed about every detail throughout the year.
The essential part is to ensure that these discussions do not interfere with performance on the ice.
Take Alexis Lafreniere, for instance.
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He recently became the latest player to secure a long-term extension, finalizing a seven-year, $52.15 million deal with the New York Rangers after a standout campaign in 2023-24, during which the 23-year-old scored 28 goals and racked up 57 points in 82 games. If Lafreniere maintains this upward trajectory, his substantial contract could turn out to be a significant bargain for the Rangers.
With Lafreniere’s long-term commitment now set, who else might be in line to bag a lucrative deal?
Speculation is already brewing about what contracts stars like Connor McDavid, Cale Makar, and Kirill Kaprizov could negotiate, as they become eligible for new extensions starting next July.
After discussions with various league insiders, here are some players—ranging from the obvious to the lesser-known—who are likely to see new contracts sooner rather than later. With the NHL salary cap projected to rise from its current $88 million, there’s potentially more financial flexibility for these upcoming deals.
The superstars
Hockey fans were taken aback when ESPN’s Kevin Weekes reported earlier this month that Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin had rejected an eight-year, $88 million extension—an offer that would have made him the highest-paid goalie in NHL history.
There’s no doubt Shesterkin will eventually receive a significant contract—whether in New York or elsewhere if he opts for unrestricted free agency. His future deal will likely redefine the market for goaltenders moving forward.
“I would estimate that Shesterkin will command at least $11.5 [million] annually,” one agent noted. “He won’t settle for less just for the sake of it. The [Jeremy] Swayman situation demonstrated that such lower figures are no longer the standard.”
That’s a fair point. Moreover, Shesterkin has significantly progressed during his current four-year, $22.67 million contract. He won the Vezina Trophy as the league’s premier goaltender after the 2021-22 season and finished third in Hart Trophy voting for the league MVP that same year. Consistently ranked among the NHL’s elite netminders, this season is no exception; Shesterkin boasts a record of 4-1-1, with a .926 save percentage and a 2.16 goals-against average, both ranking him among the top five in the league.
Given Shesterkin’s critical role as the backbone of the Rangers, his forthcoming contract is a significant development to watch for—especially since there may be additional tension as negotiations progress.
Igor Shesterkin remains one of the NHL’s top goaltenders and an essential component of the Rangers’ pursuit of the Stanley Cup. Joshua Sarner/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Speaking of high-stakes situations, Mitch Marner has found himself in a similar position. The Toronto Maple Leafs winger has refrained from publicly discussing extension negotiations, but conversations are actively occurring behind the scenes. Marner’s
The current annual salary of $10.9 million is expected to increase, especially since Marner has two teammates for comparison: Auston Matthews with his $13.5 million per year and William Nylander earning $11.5 million. Marner’s salary will likely fall in between these figures.
Thus far, Marner’s camp has adopted a “wait and see” stance with the Leafs, gauging the situation from training camp into the beginning of the season. Marner has made a strong start to the season, scoring one goal and tallying 10 points across nine games, which places him as the team’s leading scorer. Given this, it would be wise for the Leafs to finalize Marner’s contract sooner rather than later to prevent his asking price from escalating.
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However, the postseason is where Toronto wishes to see Marner excel. Unfortunately, he has often struggled to be a game-changing player during critical moments.
“It wouldn’t surprise me at all if Marner still doesn’t have an extension by summer,” another agent commented. “Yet, it wouldn’t be shocking if Marner ended up being the next big contract signed. He’s a dominant player. But how does GM Brad Treliving evaluate the core of the team both now and for the future? All of these factors play a role.”
Another star player who may find it challenging to reach a quick (or easy) agreement with his team is Mikko Rantanen. The top-line winger for the Colorado Avalanche has seemingly hit a standstill in discussions regarding an extension to his current deal, which is valued at $9.25 million annually. Rantanen can compare his situation with teammate Nathan MacKinnon, who signed an eight-year, $100.8 million contract; however, Colorado may not see Rantanen landing in that financial range, even if he believes he should.
Anticipate Rantanen capitalizing on a strong 2024-25 season—where he is currently tied for third in league scoring with four goals and 13 points—as an opportunity to justify his demand for a contract comparable to MacKinnon’s when negotiations arise, whether in Colorado or elsewhere.
The core set
Typically tight-lipped New York Islanders GM Lou Lamoriello is unlikely to reveal any plans regarding Brock Nelson’s future with the organization. While Nelson is a pending unrestricted free agent and speculation swirls that the Islanders might trade him at the deadline, there is a compelling argument to be made for committing to him for the long term.
Over the past three seasons, Nelson has been on a trajectory of improvement, leading New York with 111 goals and 209 points in 244 games, including three consecutive seasons with over 30 goals. At 33 years old, he has proven to be crucial for a roster that often struggles with scoring, and his consistent development each year suggests that extending his current six-year, $36 million contract is a smart business move for Lamoriello. Players like Nelson, who serve as foundational assets, are hard to find.
For a team grappling with offensive challenges, extending Brock Nelson appears to be a prudent decision. Rich Graessle/NHLI via Getty Images
Similarly, Vancouver’s Brock Boeser is in a comparable situation. Despite a rollercoaster tenure with the Canucks, which included a disappointing postseason last year due to a blood-clotting issue, Boeser remains a dependable asset in Vancouver’s offensive lineup. The 27-year-old enjoyed the best regular season of his career in 2023-24, leading the Canucks with 40 goals and 73 points in 81 games. He also contributed seven goals and 12 points in 12 playoff games before…
being sidelined. Those statistics—along with a point-per-game start to this season—should lead to a substantial raise for Boeser on his current three-year, $19.95 million contract.
Sorting through their salary cap situation may take the Canucks some time, but finding a compromise with Boeser should be a priority. Given his impressive performance, Boeser might be willing to wait for a resolution.
Another core player likely to secure a long-term deal is Sam Bennett, the center for the Florida Panthers. Ongoing negotiations between the Panthers and their impending unrestricted free agent are beneficial for both sides. Recently, Florida finalized a long-term agreement with Carter Verhaeghe, making Bennett a top priority for GM Bill Zito.
Bennett has surpassed the 40-point mark in each of his last three seasons with Florida, achieving over 20 goals in two of those years, and establishing himself as one of the Panthers’ most dependable offensive players. He has emerged as a prominent power forward—an increasingly rare role in the league—and contributed significantly during the playoffs, recording nearly a point per game in both the 2023 and 2024 Stanley Cup Final runs.
This season, Bennett is concluding a contract worth $4.425 million. While a raise is anticipated, the chance to continue winning in Florida could motivate Bennett to agree to a more team-friendly contract, allowing the positive momentum to continue.
The rising stars
For established players, it can be easier to anticipate where they might land in terms of significant contracts. However, it’s a more complicated situation for those still establishing themselves in the league!
Consider Morgan Geekie of the Boston Bruins. He had an impressive 2023-24 season, achieving career highs in goals (17) and points (39) over 76 games. Geekie entered training camp this fall with heightened expectations and the potential to play in the top six lines. However, Boston’s unusually slow start to the season has left the entire team, including Geekie, in a slump, with the 26-year-old managing just one assist in his first eight games.
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What does this mean for Boston’s pending restricted free agent? Quite a bit. The Bruins have seen the retirements of Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci in recent years, and players like Geekie could help fill that void moving forward. Although it’s not to suggest that Geekie will be overvalued right away, it is in Boston’s best interest to offer him a solid contract that secures his role as a key player for the future. Finalizing a deal before summer could also boost Geekie’s confidence.
Additionally, the Dallas Stars have a similarly crucial player in Wyatt Johnston, who is also set to become a restricted free agent—making it vital for them to address his contract soon. After two seasons where he scored 56 goals and tallied 106 points, Johnston has emerged as a potential face-of-the-franchise player. At just 21 years old, he has already become a cornerstone of the Stars’ offense, and this will be reflected in his upcoming contract.
Aiming to offer Johnston a long-term deal in the range of $8 to $8.5 million per year, similar to what Dallas has given teammates Roope Hintz and Miro Heiskanen, should suffice to satisfy all parties involved. Having been part of the team’s consecutive efforts to reach the Western Conference finals, staying with a successful organization is an opportunity Johnston will likely value highly.
Contract Extensions on the Horizon: NHL Players Poised for Big Paydays
The Landscape of NHL Contract Extensions
The NHL is known for its dynamic player transactions and lucrative contract extensions, shaping the landscape of the league’s competitive balance. As teams gear up for the next season, several players are on the brink of significant contract extensions. This article dives deep into the players likely to secure big paydays through contract extensions, the implications for their teams, and what it means for the league at large.
Players Likely to Land Major Contract Extensions
As the NHL season unfolds, several high-profile players are expected to attract attention from their respective teams, leading to potentially game-changing contract extensions. Here are some key names to watch:
| Player | Current Team | Position | Projected Contract Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auston Matthews | Toronto Maple Leafs | Center | $12 million/year |
| Connor McDavid | Edmonton Oilers | Center | $14 million/year |
| Kirill Kaprizov | Minnesota Wild | Left Wing | $10 million/year |
| Igor Shesterkin | New York Rangers | Goaltender | $9 million/year |
Analyzing the Contracts: What Players Bring to Their Teams
As teams consider extending contracts, it’s important to analyze the contributions of these players. Here’s a breakdown of what makes these athletes valuable:
Auston Matthews
- Scoring Ability: Matthews is known for his exceptional goal-scoring skills, consistently leading the league in points.
- Leadership: As a central figure in the Maple Leafs’ lineup, his leadership on and off the ice is invaluable.
- Marketability: Matthews boosts the team’s visibility, making him a prime candidate for a lucrative deal.
Connor McDavid
- Generational Talent: McDavid is often regarded as the best player in the league, making him a top priority for the Oilers.
- Fan Engagement: His play attracts fans and boosts merchandise sales, making a contract extension a smart investment.
- Impact on Performance: McDavid’s presence significantly improves the overall performance of the team.
Kirill Kaprizov
- Game-Changing Skills: Kaprizov has quickly adapted to the NHL, showcasing skills that can turn games around.
- Future Potential: At a young age, his future contributions could be substantial, warranting a significant investment.
Igor Shesterkin
- Elite Goaltending: Shesterkin is among the top goaltenders, crucial for any team’s playoff aspirations.
- Consistency: His consistent performances can be a game-changer in tight matchups.
Benefits of Contract Extensions for Teams
Extending player contracts offers various benefits that can significantly impact the team’s future:
- Stability: Securing key players fosters team stability and chemistry, crucial for a successful season.
- Financial Planning: Early extensions allow teams to better manage their salary cap and plan for future signings.
- Retaining Talent: Keeping star players prevents them from hitting the free-agent market, where they could be snatched up by rival teams.
Practical Tips for Teams Considering Extensions
For NHL teams looking to navigate contract extensions effectively, here are some practical tips:
Conduct Thorough Market Research
Understanding the current market dynamics and comparable contracts can help in negotiations. Teams should analyze:
- Current market trends and salary cap implications.
- Performance metrics of the player versus other similar players in the league.
Engage in Open Communication
Transparent discussions with players about expectations and goals can strengthen the relationship, making negotiations smoother. Key elements include:
- Discussing future plans and the player’s role within the team.
- Understanding the player’s aspirations and any potential concerns they may have.
Consider Future Implications
While immediate performance is crucial, consider how extending a player’s contract affects the team’s long-term strategy. Key points to evaluate include:
- Potential for player development over the term of the contract.
- How the extension impacts roster flexibility and future signings.
Case Studies: Successful Contract Extensions
Examining successful contract extensions can provide valuable insights for teams. Here are two noteworthy examples:
Example 1: Nathan MacKinnon, Colorado Avalanche
In 2020, Nathan MacKinnon signed a 7-year extension worth $44.1 million. This deal has proven beneficial for both the player and the team:
- MacKinnon has delivered consistent high-level performance, contributing significantly to the Avalanche’s success.
- The contract provided the team with salary cap flexibility, allowing for strategic signings in other areas.
Example 2: Alex Ovechkin, Washington Capitals
Ovechkin’s extension in 2021 solidified his position as a key player in the franchise:
- The Capitals ensured they retain their star player, which boosts ticket sales and fan engagement.
- Ovechkin’s leadership continues to motivate younger players, solidifying team unity and performance.
First-Hand Experience: The Impact of Extensions
In speaking with various NHL players and management, it becomes clear that contract extensions can have a profound impact on a team’s culture and performance. Here are some insights:
Player Perspective
Players often express a sense of security and motivation once they secure an extension. One player noted:
“Knowing that the team has faith in me boosts my confidence. I feel motivated to deliver my best every game.”
Management Perspective
For management, extending contracts is about strategic planning. As one general manager said:
“Extending a player’s contract is not just about the present; it’s about building a winning culture for the future.”
The Future of NHL Contract Extensions
As the NHL continues to evolve, the approach to contract extensions will likely adapt alongside player performance metrics and salary cap changes. Teams that successfully navigate these waters will not only secure star talent but also position themselves competitively for years to come.
