Nathan MacKinnon, the star forward for the Colorado Avalanche, recently signed a contract that has caught the attention of the hockey world. The eight-year contract extension is worth an impressive $12.6 million annually, making MacKinnon the highest-paid player in the NHL. This lucrative deal, worth a total of $100.8 million, will come into effect in the 2023-24 season.
The structure of the contract includes a combination of signing bonuses and base salary, with an astounding $85.34 million being paid in signing bonuses alone. This substantial financial commitment speaks to the Colorado Avalanche’s confidence in MacKinnon’s abilities and his crucial role within the team.
Since being drafted as the first overall pick by the Avalanche in 2013, MacKinnon has dedicated his entire nine-year NHL career to the team. His exceptional performance on the ice has been instrumental in the team’s recent success, which includes their 2022 Stanley Cup victory.
MacKinnon has consistently proven himself as one of the league’s top players, boasting numerous accolades and high-point production. His outstanding skills and contributions to the team have undoubtedly justified his record-breaking contract.
In this article, we will delve deeper into the specifics of Nathan MacKinnon’s contract, including his performance, contract history, and career earnings. We will also examine the impact of this contract on the NHL as a whole and its significance for both MacKinnon and the Colorado Avalanche.
Nathan MacKinnon’s Record-Breaking Contract
Nathan MacKinnon’s contract with the Colorado Avalanche has shattered records, making him the highest-paid player in the NHL. In a groundbreaking deal, MacKinnon signed an eight-year contract extension worth an impressive $12.6 million annually. The total value of the contract is a staggering $100.8 million, solidifying his status as one of the highest-earning athletes in professional sports.
Nathan MacKinnon becomes the highest paid player in @NHL history after signing an 8-year extension with the @Avalanche. 💰
Thoughts on the deal? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/8c63sa1aFh
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) September 20, 2022
This contract, which will begin in the 2023-24 season, is a testament to MacKinnon’s exceptional talent and performance on the ice. The deal includes a combination of signing bonuses and base salary, with a remarkable $85.34 million of the contract being paid in signing bonuses. This substantial financial investment from the Colorado Avalanche reflects the team’s recognition of MacKinnon’s invaluable contributions to their success.
Since being drafted first overall by the Avalanche in 2013, MacKinnon has displayed exceptional skill and determination. He has consistently been one of the league’s top performers, earning numerous accolades and boasting high point production. His exceptional play was instrumental in leading the Avalanche to victory in the Stanley Cup in 2022. MacKinnon’s sustained excellence and impact on the ice have undoubtedly justified his record-breaking contract.
| Contract Details | Amount (in millions) |
|---|---|
| Total Contract Value | $100.8 |
| Annual Salary | $12.6 |
| Signing Bonuses | $85.34 |
It’s important to note, that while MacKinnon is currently the highest-paid NHL player, he will lose that title to Toronto Maple Leafs’ superstar Auston Matthews next year. Matthews signed a five-year contract extension in August 2023 with a staggering $13.25M cap hit Matthews’ extension kicks in at the beginning of the 2024-25 season, which means MacKinon will become the second-highest-paid NHL player at that time.
The terms and conditions of the contract
As with any professional sports contract, Nathan MacKinnon’s deal with the Colorado Avalanche includes various terms and conditions that both parties have agreed upon. These terms cover a range of important aspects, including the duration of the contract, trade clauses, and salary structure.
Duration: MacKinnon’s contract is set to run for eight years, starting from the 2023-24 season. This provides long-term stability for both the player and the team, allowing them to plan for the future with confidence.
Trade Clause: It’s common for NHL contracts to include trade clauses, and MacKinnon’s contract is no exception. The specifics of the trade clause have not been disclosed, but it is expected to provide MacKinnon with some control over any potential trades involving him. This is a valuable provision for elite players like MacKinnon, as it allows them to have a say in their future and remain with a team they are committed to.
Salary Structure: The financial details of MacKinnon’s contract are impressive, with an annual salary of $12.6 million, making him the highest-paid player in the NHL. The contract includes a combination of signing bonuses and base salary, with the majority of the contract ($85.34 million) being paid in signing bonuses. This structure provides MacKinnon with financial security and rewards his exceptional performance on the ice.
| Term | Salary | Signing Bonus |
|---|---|---|
| 2023-2024 | $12.6 million | $15 million |
| 2024-2025 | $12.6 million | $15 million |
| 2025-2026 | $12.6 million | $15 million |
| 2026-2027 | $12.6 million | $15 million |
| 2027-2028 | $12.6 million | $15 million |
| 2028-2029 | $12.6 million | $15 million |
| 2029-2030 | $12.6 million | $15 million |
| 2030-2031 | $12.6 million | $15 million |
MacKinnon’s contract demonstrates the immense value that NHL teams place on elite talent. His exceptional performance and consistent high-level play have earned him this lucrative deal, making him one of the league’s highest-paid players. The terms and conditions of the contract reflect the commitment of both MacKinnon and the Avalanche to continue their successful partnership for years to come.
With this contract, MacKinnon solidifies his place as a key cornerstone of the Colorado Avalanche and one of the most dominant players in the NHL. His incredible talent, work ethic, and dedication to the game have propelled him to the top echelons of the sport. As the highest-paid player in the league, MacKinnon’s contract not only rewards his exceptional skills but also establishes a precedent for future contract negotiations.
Nathan MacKinnon’s Performance and Accolades
It is no surprise that Nathan MacKinnon’s exceptional performance on the ice has helped secure him a significant contract extension. As the star forward for the Colorado Avalanche, MacKinnon has consistently proven himself to be one of the top players in the NHL. His skill, dedication, and high point production have set him apart from his peers.
Since being drafted first overall by the Avalanche in 2013, MacKinnon has been a driving force behind the team’s success. He has played his entire nine-year career in Colorado, showcasing his incredible talent and contributing to the team’s achievements. In 2022, MacKinnon played a pivotal role in helping the Avalanche win the Stanley Cup, solidifying his status as a key player in the league. Avs’ fans will never forget his sensational Game 5 hat trick goal against the St. Louis Blues.
Throughout his career, MacKinnon has amassed an impressive list of accolades. He has been named an NHL All-Star five times and has received the Lady Byng Trophy for sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct. Additionally, he has been a finalist for the Hart Trophy, which is awarded to the league’s most valuable player, on multiple occasions.
Notable Achievements and Statistics:
- Stanley Cup winner in 2022
- Five-time NHL All-Star
- Lady Byng Trophy winner
- Consistently ranks among the top in points and assists
- Impressive career point total of over 800 points
MacKinnon’s remarkable performance on the ice has undoubtedly contributed to his status as the highest-paid player in the NHL. With his contract extension, he will have the opportunity to continue making an impact for the Colorado Avalanche and solidify his place among the league’s elite players.
| Year | Team | GP | G | A | P |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013-2014 | Colorado Avalanche | 82 | 24 | 39 | 63 |
| 2014-2015 | Colorado Avalanche | 64 | 14 | 24 | 38 |
| 2015-2016 | Colorado Avalanche | 72 | 21 | 31 | 52 |
| 2016-2017 | Colorado Avalanche | 82 | 39 | 58 | 97 |
| 2017-2018 | Colorado Avalanche | 74 | 39 | 58 | 97 |
| 2018-2019 | Colorado Avalanche | 82 | 41 | 58 | 99 |
Nathan MacKinnon’s career earnings and net worth
Nathan MacKinnon’s exceptional talent and successful career have undoubtedly brought him considerable earnings and a substantial net worth. As the current highest-paid player in the NHL, MacKinnon’s eight-year contract extension with the Colorado Avalanche is worth $12.6 million annually, totaling $100.8 million. The contract, set to begin in the 2023-24 season, includes a combination of signing bonuses and base salary, with $85.34 million of the contract being allocated to signing bonuses.
MacKinnon’s lucrative contract is a testament to his remarkable performance on the ice. Since being drafted first overall by the Avalanche in 2013, he has consistently showcased his exceptional skills and contributed significantly to the team’s success. In fact, MacKinnon played a pivotal role in the Avalanche’s Stanley Cup victory in 2022. His high point production and numerous accolades have solidified his status as one of the top players in the league.
While MacKinnon’s contract extension is a significant financial milestone, it is important to note that his earnings and net worth extend beyond just his current deal. Throughout his nine-year NHL career, MacKinnon has amassed substantial earnings through previous contracts and endorsement deals. These additional sources of income, along with his new contract, contribute to his overall net worth.
| Earnings Breakdown | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Annual Contract Value | $12.6 million |
| Contract Length | 8 years |
| Total Contract Worth | $100.8 million |
| Signing Bonuses | $85.34 million |
Considering both his exceptional talent and financial success, it is evident that Nathan MacKinnon’s career has set him up for long-term financial stability and a remarkable net worth.
Nathan MacKinnon’s Contract History
| Contract Period | Contract Type | Contract Length | Total Value | Average Annual Value (AAV) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013-2015 | Entry Level | 3 years | $11,325,000 | $3,775,000 |
| 2016-2022 | Extension | 7 years | $44,100,000 | $6,300,000 |
| 2023-2030 | Extension | 8 years | $100,800,000 | $12,600,000 |
Nathan MacKinnon’s contract history is a tale of team loyalty and personal growth, culminating in him becoming the highest-paid NHL player. MacKinnon’s journey began with his entry-level contract, a three-year deal worth $11,325,000, which he signed with the Colorado Avalanche in 2013.
In 2016, he inked a seven-year, $44,100,000 contract, averaging $6,300,000 per year. This deal was considered one of the most team-friendly contracts in the league, as MacKinnon’s performance far exceeded his pay. He told Forbes, “On my next deal, I’ll take less again. Because I want to win with this group.”
“On my next deal, I’ll take less again. Because I want to win with this group.”
Nathan MacKinnon is one of the NHL's most underpaid players, but made peace with that. He spoke candidly with me about his deal + the shifting RFA market.
For @ForbesSports:https://t.co/d3xCqGeDK8
— Jordan Horrobin (@JordanHorrobin) December 5, 2019
MacKinnon’s commitment to the Avalanche and his willingness to take a smaller salary to help the team win was evident throughout his career. In 2021, he even mentioned that he would sign another team-friendly contract. However, his on-ice success and undeniable talent eventually led to a well-deserved payday.
In September 2022, MacKinnon signed an eight-year, $100,800,000 contract extension with the Avalanche, which included an $85,340,000 signing bonus and an annual average salary of $12,600,000. This deal made him the highest-paid NHL player, surpassing Edmonton Oilers’ Connor McDavid, who had a $12.5 million cap hit. MacKinnon’s new contract took effect in the 2023-24 season.
Despite leaving money on the table with his previous contract, MacKinnon’s new deal reflects his value to the team and the league. With the salary cap expected to rise in the coming years, he could have commanded at least $14 million or even $15-16 million on his next deal. However, MacKinnon chose to prioritize his team’s success and avoid any distractions during the season.
As the highest-paid NHL player, MacKinnon’s contract sets a new benchmark for superstar contracts in the league. His dedication to the Avalanche and his willingness to take a smaller salary in the past have paid off, as he now enjoys the financial rewards of his hard work and exceptional talent.
FAQ
Q: What is the value of Nathan MacKinnon’s contract extension?
A: Nathan MacKinnon’s contract extension is worth $12.6 million annually for eight years, totaling $100.8 million.
Q: When will Nathan MacKinnon’s contract extension begin?
A: Nathan MacKinnon’s contract extension will begin in the 2023-24 season.
Q: How is Nathan MacKinnon’s contract structured?
A: Nathan MacKinnon’s contract includes a combination of signing bonuses and base salary, with $85.34 million of the contract paid in signing bonuses.
Q: How long has Nathan MacKinnon been with the Colorado Avalanche?
A: Nathan MacKinnon has played his entire nine-year NHL career with the Colorado Avalanche since being drafted first overall in 2013.
Q: What achievements has Nathan MacKinnon had in his career?
A: Nathan MacKinnon has been a key player in the Colorado Avalanche’s recent success, including winning the Stanley Cup in 2022. He has consistently been one of the top players in the league and has received numerous accolades for his performance.
