The National Hockey League (NHL) average salary for players in its league is often in the millions, but salaries vary by skill level. This variance in skill level separates the top paid players from the players who earn near the league minimum required salary. Exploring the salaries for hockey players and other jobs in the NHL can help you determine if pursuing a career within this organization can help you reach your professional goals.
What is the average salary for an NHL player?
The average salary for an NHL player is about $2.69 million as of the 2019-20 season, but that can vary greatly across individual players. This is higher than the national average for all athletes and sports competitors which is $77,300 per year according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This difference is due to the popularity and profitability of the NHL and its players much like in the National Football League (NFL) National Basketball Association (NBA) and Major League Baseball (MLB).
What do the highest paid NHL players make?
The NHL and the NHL Players Association (NHLPA) regularly negotiate a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) that establishes the salary cap for all teams for upcoming seasons. In July 2020, the NHL and NHLPA ratified the current CBA and extended it through 2026. Changes included setting a salary cap of $81.5 million until the NHL reached a specific revenue threshold. As of the 2022-23 season the salary cap for all teams remains at $81.5 million. Although all teams have the same salary cap players have contracts for different amounts based on factors like points per game and average time spent on the ice. By adding a players contract amount and signing bonus and dividing the total by the number of years on their contract you can find their average annual value (AAV). According to Spotrac, the players with the highest approximate AAVs for the 2022-23 season are:
- Connor McDavid (Edmonton Oilers): $12.5 million
- Artemi Panarin (New York Rangers): $11.643 million
- Auston Matthews (Toronto Maple Leafs): $11.64 million
- Erik Karlsson (San Jose Sharks): $11.5 million
- Leon Draisaitl (Edmonton Oilers): $11.3 million
What is the minimum salary in the NHL?
As of the 2022-23 season, the minimum salary for hockey players in the NHL is $750,000 per year. Players who earn the minimum salary rarely spend as much time on the ice as higher paying players but theyre still valuable members of their teams. The physical nature of a professional athletes job and the risk of injury typically lead players to retire much earlier than professionals in other industries. Providing players with a lucrative minimum salary allows them to spend fewer years working while still earning a living.
How to become an NHL player
The NHL is a selective organization that recruits only the highest performing athletes who pursue careers as professional hockey players. Here are some steps you can take that may help you earn a spot on an NHL team:
Start playing hockey early
Begin playing hockey at a young age to develop your skills and gain experience. Many professional hockey players start skating and playing hockey as early as three or four years old. Join local youth hockey leagues and participate in tournaments to improve your skills and gain exposure to competitive play.
Develop your skills
Focus on improving your skating, stickhandling, shooting, and passing skills. Practice regularly and seek guidance from experienced coaches to refine your technique. Attend hockey camps and clinics to learn from professional players and coaches.
Play at higher levels
As you progress, aim to play for increasingly competitive teams. This may include high school teams, junior hockey leagues or college hockey programs. These higher levels of play will help you develop your skills further and gain exposure to scouts and recruiters.
Stay in shape
Maintain peak physical condition through regular exercise, strength training, and proper nutrition. Hockey is a physically demanding sport and NHL players need to be in excellent shape to perform at their best.
Enter the NHL draft
To be eligible for the NHL draft you must be at least 18 years old and not older than 20 by September 15 of the draft year. If youre not drafted you can still try out for teams as a free agent.
Consider playing in minor leagues
If youre not immediately drafted into the NHL, consider playing in minor leagues like the American Hockey League (AHL) or East Coast Hockey League (ECHL). These leagues can serve as stepping stones to the NHL and provide opportunities to improve your skills and catch the attention of NHL scouts.
Other NHL jobs and their salaries
While playing in the NHL is a dream for many, there are other career opportunities within the organization. Here are five other NHL jobs and their approximate salaries:
- NHL Coach: $1 million to $5 million per year
- NHL Scout: $60,000 to $100,000 per year
- NHL Referee: $165,000 to $360,000 per year
- NHL Equipment Manager: $80,000 to $130,000 per year
- NHL Front Office Executive: $100,000 to $1 million+ per year
NHL streaming options
For fans who want to follow their favorite teams and players, there are several NHL streaming options available:
NHL Network streaming
The NHL network offers live games highlights and analysis. Its available through many cable and satellite providers as well as streaming services like fuboTV and Sling TV.
NHL streaming service
The NHLs official streaming service is NHL.TV (now part of ESPN+). It offers live out of market games full game replays and condensed game recaps.
Free NHL streaming
While most reliable NHL streaming options require a subscription, some websites offer free NHL streaming. However these sites may be unreliable or illegal, so its best to stick with official streaming services for the best experience.
By understanding the various career paths and salary potential within the NHL as well as how to access games through NHL streaming services, you can better appreciate the opportunities and entertainment value the league provides. Whether you’re aspiring to be a player considering a career in hockey management, or simply a fan looking to catch the latest games the NHL offers something for everyone in the world of professional ice hockey.
Most of the players in the NHL today began playing hockey at a young age. Particularly in northern areas of the U.S. hockey leagues for children are popular. These leagues teach kids the basics of the game and the teamwork and communication skills that are essential for the sport. While its not a necessity, playing hockey as a child can give you an advantage for playing professionally as an adult.
Starting early allows young players to develop a strong foundation in skating, puck handling, and game strategy. Many NHL stars credit their success to the countless hours spent on frozen ponds or in local rinks during their childhood. This early exposure not only hones physical skills but also instills a deep passion for the game that can fuel a players drive to reach the professional level.
For parents considering introducing their children to hockey its important to note that many NHL streaming services offer youth hockey content, providing young players with the opportunity to watch and learn from their heroes. While official NHL streaming options are typically paid services, there are occasionally free NHL streaming events or highlights available that can inspire and educate young players.
Play hockey in high school or at a hockey academy
High school hockey players typically expand on what they learned about the game as a child to further develop their skills. For instance, they may learn more complicated playing techniques, workouts and training regimens that allow them to advance beyond basic abilities. Performing well in high school can also help you capture the attention of college recruiters who identify high school athletes that may perform well at the college level. The NHL sometimes drafts some of the best high school players before they enter college.
High school hockey programs vary widely across the country, with some regions known for producing top tier talent. In Minnesota, for example high school hockey is a major part of the local culture, with intense rivalries and state tournaments that draw significant attention. Many future NHL players cut their teeth in these competitive high school environments.
Hockey academies offer another path for serious young players. These specialized schools combine rigorous academic programs with intensive hockey training, often providing students with access to top notch facilities and coaching. While attending a hockey academy can be expensive, it can also provide unparalleled opportunities for skill development and exposure to scouts.
For aspiring players and their families following the progress of high school and academy teams can be exciting. Many local news outlets and some NHL streaming services cover notable high school games and tournaments allowing fans to keep up with emerging talent.
Join a college hockey team or junior league
Many students seek positions on high-ranking National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I teams, but its possible for a hockey player to excel at a smaller school. College hockey teams offer a chance for hardworking and talented players to perform at a national level. These players learn even more about the sport and may receive adequate experience and training to play at a professional level by the end of their collegiate career. Players who excel in college sometimes enter the NHL draft immediately after graduating.
College hockey in the United States has produced numerous NHL stars over the years. The NCAA provides a unique environment where players can develop their skills while also pursuing higher education. This path allows players to have a backup plan if a professional career doesn’t materialize, while still providing high level competition and exposure to NHL scouts.
In Canada players can also pursue positions on a major junior league team starting at age 16. The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) consists of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) and the Western Hockey League (WHL). Each of these regional leagues scouts players to play on their teams. These teams draft players onto active rosters or onto protected lists which allow teams to claim the draft rights to players who are still developing their skills in the minor leagues.
The Canadian junior league system is renowned for its ability to produce NHL ready talent. Many of the top NHL draft picks each year come from these leagues, which offer a more professional style schedule and level of play compared to college hockey. however players in these leagues forfeit their NCAA eligibility, making it a significant decision for young athletes.
For fans interested in following the development of future NHL stars many NHL streaming services now offer coverage of college and junior league games while free NHL streaming of these games is rare, highlights and analysis are often available through various hockey focused websites and YouTube channels.
Get drafted into the NHL
Whether its immediately after college or after a few years in the minor leagues players who work hard and prove themselves on the ice may have a chance of earning a place in the NHL. The NHL has a draft every year, and teams select players internationally or within the U.S. from high schools colleges and junior leagues. If you dont get drafted right away you can continue playing on a junior or college team, which allows you to improve your skills and prepare for the next draft.
The NHL draft is a highly anticipated event for hockey fans and aspiring players alike Its typically held in late June or early July and consists of seven rounds. The draft order is determined by a combination of the previous seasons standings and a draft lottery for the top picks. This system is designed to help weaker teams improve by giving them earlier picks.
For fans the draft is an exciting time to see which new talents their favorite teams will acquire. Many NHL streaming services provide extensive coverage of the draft including expert analysis and interviews with newly drafted players. While official NHL network streaming is the most reliable way to watch the draft live, some free NHL streaming options may be available for those unable to access paid services.
Enter a minor league on a farm team
The two primary minor hockey leagues, also known as farm leagues, in the U.S. are the American Hockey League (AHL) and ECHL, formerly the East Coast Hockey League. For some players, minor leagues have many advantages, like earning a yearly salary and honing their skills to make them more appealing and valuable to NHL teams. NHL teams often promote talent from minor leagues regularly, sometimes even in the middle of a season if the teams need a player with certain strengths or the coaches want to change their roster.
Minor league hockey plays a crucial role in player development. These leagues allow players to adjust to the faster pace and physical demands of professional hockey in a slightly less pressurized environment than the NHL. They also provide opportunities for players who may have been overlooked in the draft or who need more time to develop their skills.
While minor league games may not receive the same level of coverage as NHL games many AHL teams have their own streaming services. Additionally, some NHL streaming platforms include AHL games in their packages allowing fans to follow the progress of their teams prospects.
Earn a promotion to the NHL
For hockey players in the AHL and ECHL, the final step in becoming an NHL player is a promotion to the top league. You can accomplish this by impressing both minor league coaches and NHL scouts who believe youre ready to play in the NHL. There are a number of factors that determine whether someone is ready for the NHL, including skill level physicality mental and physical endurance and other traits.
The journey from the minor leagues to the NHL is often a challenging one, requiring not just skill but also perseverance and mental toughness. Players must be prepared to seize opportunities when they arise, as NHL call-ups can happen suddenly due to injuries or team needs.
For fans following a players journey from the minors to the NHL can be incredibly rewarding. Many NHL streaming services now offer features that allow fans to track prospects and receive notifications when theyre called up to the big league. While free NHL streaming of minor league games is limited, many teams and leagues provide highlights and updates through their social media channels.
National average salary: $38,111 per year
Primary duties: A Zamboni driver plays a crucial role in maintaining the ice for NHL games. These skilled professionals operate specialized machines called Zambonis to resurface the ice rink ensuring it remains smooth and safe for players. Their work is essential before, during, and after games to maintain optimal ice conditions.
Zamboni drivers typically receive comprehensive on the job training to master the intricacies of operating these complex machines effectively. This training covers not only the technical aspects of driving the Zamboni but also understanding ice conditions and maintenance techniques.
The job requires a keen eye for detail and the ability to work efficiently under time constraints especially during game intermissions when quick resurfacing is necessary. Zamboni drivers must also be aware of safety protocols and be able to identify and report any ice related issues that could affect player safety or game quality.
While the salary may not be as high as some other NHL related positions many Zamboni drivers find their work rewarding due to its crucial role in the sport and the unique skills it requires. For hockey enthusiasts, it offers a chance to be part of the game in a hands on way.
2. Event manager
National average salary: $57,964 per year
Primary duties: An event manager in the NHL context is a versatile hospitality professional responsible for organizing and executing various events associated with NHL teams. These events can range from promotional activities for specific teams to corporate gatherings for NHL team employees.
The role of an event manager in the NHL is multifaceted and demanding. They must possess excellent organizational skills attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. A typical day might involve coordinating with venues, negotiating with vendors managing budgets and overseeing event staff.
Event managers often work closely with marketing teams to ensure that events align with the teams brand and objectives. They may also collaborate with NHL streaming services to incorporate digital elements into events enhancing fan engagement and reach.
One of the exciting aspects of this role is the opportunity to create unique experiences for fans. This could include organizing meet and greets with players, coordinating fan festivals, or planning special events around key games or milestones in the NHL season.
Budget management is a crucial part of an event managers responsibilities. They must balance the desire for impressive events with financial constraints, often requiring creative solutions and careful planning.
3. Social media manager
National average salary: $55,933 per year
Primary duties: A social media manager in the NHL plays a vital role in connecting teams with their fan base through various digital platforms. Their primary responsibility is to create and maintain a strong online presence for the team engaging fans and promoting the brand across social media channels.
In the fast-paced world of professional hockey, social media managers must be quick to react to game outcomes, player news, and league developments. They often work closely with the team’s communications department to ensure consistent messaging across all platforms.
A key part of their role involves creating content that resonates with fans. This could include behind-the-scenes footage player interviews game highlights, and interactive contests. Many NHL teams now use their social media platforms to provide exclusive content, sometimes even offering free NHL streaming of certain events or behind the scenes moments.
Social media managers also play a crucial role in promoting NHL streaming services, often sharing links to official streams or highlighting upcoming broadcasts. They may collaborate with the NHL network streaming team to create social media campaigns that drive viewership and engagement.
Engaging with fans through comments and messages is another important aspect of the job. This interaction helps build fan loyalty and provides valuable feedback to the team. Social media managers must be adept at handling both positive and negative comments professionally and in line with the teams values.
Analytics form a significant part of a social media managers responsibilities. They must track engagement metrics analyze trends and use this data to inform future content strategies. This data driven approach helps ensure that the teams social media efforts are effective and continually improving.
In the era of digital media the role of a social media manager in the NHL has become increasingly important. They serve as the voice of the team online shaping public perception and fostering a sense of community among fans. For those passionate about hockey and digital communication its an exciting career path that combines the thrill of sports with the dynamic world of social media.