The Minnesota Wild have inked a landmark deal with star left winger Kirill Kaprizov, securing his services for an eight-year extension worth $136 million. This contract stands as the most lucrative in NHL history.
Starting from the upcoming season, Kaprizov’s salary cap hit will amount to $17 million annually, setting a new benchmark for player earnings since the inception of the league’s cap era in 2005. This surpasses Auston Matthews’ previous high of $13.25 million with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Prior to this, Alex Ovechkin held the record for the highest total contract value with a 13-year, $124 million deal signed in 2008 with the Washington Capitals.
The timing of Kaprizov’s contract extension is particularly noteworthy amidst other significant player contract negotiations in the league. Notably, Connor McDavid, widely regarded as one of the best players globally, is approaching the final year of his deal with the Edmonton Oilers and could potentially become an unrestricted free agent on July 1. Meanwhile, Jack Eichel and Artemi Panarin also face pending unrestricted free agency.
Having played the preceding season under a five-year, $45 million agreement signed in September 2021, Kaprizov’s exceptional performance saw him achieve career-high stats with 47 goals and 61 assists in 81 games in the 2021-22 season.
The Russian forward’s impressive journey in the NHL includes winning the Calder Trophy for his outstanding performance in the shortened 2020-21 season, where he notched 27 goals and 24 assists in 55 games. Since then, Kaprizov has maintained his status as the Wild’s most productive and dynamic player, receiving widespread acclaim within the league.
Originally drafted in the fifth round in 2015, Kaprizov honed his skills in the KHL before making his debut with the Wild in July 2020. Despite facing challenges off the ice, including pandemic-related delays during negotiations and visa issues, Kaprizov has consistently demonstrated his value on the ice.
Although injuries have periodically impacted his playing time, Kaprizov has showcased his scoring prowess with impressive goal and assist tallies across various seasons. The 28-year-old’s commitment to the Wild was reaffirmed following the team’s playoff exit, expressing his contentment with the organization and surroundings in the Twin Cities.
Kaprizov’s impact extends beyond his on-ice performance, with his positive presence in the locker room and dedication to improving his English language skills standing out among his peers. This historic contract surpasses previous long-term deals in Wild history, notably those of Zach Parise and Ryan Suter, signaling a new era for the franchise.