Draisaitl Leads the Pack: Ranking the NHL’s Richest Players in 2025
By Alex Carter – World-Today-News.com
As the 2025 NHL season heats up, the conversation inevitably turns to on-ice performance. But beyond the goals and saves, a different kind of ranking is taking shape: the league’s wealthiest players. Leading the charge is Edmonton Oilers superstar Leon Draisaitl, solidifying his position not just as one of the game’s elite talents, but as its highest earner.
Currently commanding an annual salary of $14 million, Draisaitl’s financial success extends far beyond his on-ice contract. Drafted third overall in 2014, the german forward has quickly become a dominant force, renowned for his scoring prowess, playmaking vision, and clutch performances. Alongside teammate Connor McDavid, he forms arguably the most dynamic duo in modern hockey, consistently driving the Oilers’ pursuit of the Stanley Cup.
However, it’s Draisaitl’s growing influence off the ice that truly sets him apart. Lucrative sponsorship deals, international recognition - especially as a leading German player in the NHL – and a burgeoning personal brand are all contributing to his rapidly expanding net worth.While hockey legends like Mario Lemieux and Wayne Gretzky remain benchmarks for all-time NHL wealth,Draisaitl’s trajectory suggests he’s poised to one day challenge their legacy. He represents a new standard for financial success in the modern NHL.
Beyond Draisaitl: Other High Earners to Watch
While Draisaitl currently reigns supreme, several other players are enjoying significant financial rewards for their contributions to the game:
William nylander (Toronto Maple Leafs): Nylander has blossomed into a key star for the Maple Leafs, captivating fans with his fluid skating, exceptional puck-handling skills, and timely scoring. A recent contract extension has firmly placed him among the league’s richest players, and his growing profile as a top Swedish export further boosts his earning potential.
Erik Karlsson (Pittsburgh Penguins): A two-time Norris Trophy winner, Karlsson remains one of the most offensively gifted defensemen of his generation. His ability to quarterback a power play and drive offensive transitions has ensured a ample contract, solidifying his place among the NHL’s financial elite. His leadership and reputation as a dynamic player continue to command a high price tag.
The financial landscape of the NHL is constantly evolving, but one thing is clear: these players represent the pinnacle of both athletic achievement and financial success in the world of professional hockey.
Keywords: NHL, Leon Draisaitl, William Nylander, Erik karlsson, NHL salaries, richest NHL players, hockey, Edmonton Oilers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Pittsburgh Penguins, sports finance.