Minnesota Wild Signs Kirill Kaprizov To NHL Record $136M Eight-Year Contract

The Minnesota Wild have signed star forward Kirill Kaprizov to an eight-year contract extension worth a record-setting $136 million, making him the highest-paid player in NHL history with an average annual value of $17 million. Kaprizov, 28, who has been a franchise leader since his NHL debut in 2020, expressed a desire to remain in Minnesota, with the deal reflecting his goal to raise the salary standard for NHL superstars. Despite battling injuries during the 2024-25 season, Kaprizov has been a key offensive player for the Wild, holding franchise records and maintaining an average of 1.21 points per game. The contract includes a full no-movement clause and solidifies Kaprizov's role as the cornerstone of the Wild's Stanley Cup ambitions. Hockey insiders suggest this deal pushes superstar contract values into a new tier, potentially impacting future negotiations, especially those involving players like Connor McDavid. While Kaprizov's injury history raises concerns about the long-term value of the contract, the Wild are committed to building their team around him for years to come.