NHL sees surge in $20M contracts for young stars

The National Hockey League is witnessing a new wave of blockbuster contracts for its top young talent. Recent deals include Leo Carlsson's $18 million per‑season offer, Connor Bedard's $15 million AAV, and Macklin Celebrini's historic five‑year, $18.8 million AAV extension with San Jose. Analysts note that the current maximum annual salary sits at $20.8 million, and speculation is growing that defense prospect Matthew Schaefer of the New York Islanders could become the first player to sign a $20 million‑per‑season contract.

Other elite players such as Cale Makar and Quinn Hughes are also mentioned as potential early adopters of the new salary ceiling, though contractual situations differ across teams. The trend reflects a broader shift toward rewarding generational talent with unprecedented pay, reshaping the market for restricted free agents and influencing future negotiations across the league.