Minnesota Wild lock in Kirill Kaprizov with record $136 million deal

In the United States, the Minnesota Wild made headlines on September 29, 2025, by officially signing winger Kirill Kaprizov to an impressive eight-year extension worth $136 million. This deal, reported by the organization, marks a historic moment in the NHL, as it establishes new records for both total contract value and average annual salary. Under this contract, Kaprizov is set to earn an average of $17 million per season, succeeding the previous record held by Leon Draisaitl. Kirill Kaprizov, a talented 28-year-old Russian player, has quickly risen through the ranks since joining the NHL. In his career thus far, he has demonstrated incredible skills on the ice, once logging a career-high 108 points during the 2021-22 season and consistently being a top contributor for the Wild. Kaprizov has been a pivotal player for the Wild since winning the Calder Memorial Trophy for the league's top rookie in the 2020-21 season. Despite injuries affecting his play during the 2024-25 season, he managed to record 56 points in just 41 games. The Wild’s decision to secure Kaprizov comes at a crucial time as the team has struggled to advance in the playoffs, not having made it past the first round since the 2014-15 season. This contract extension is seen as a transformative move that may help revitalize the team’s chances at postseason success. Others like Connor McDavid and Jack Eichel, who are nearing free agency, add to the pressure on NHL teams to secure their star players, making Kaprizov's retention essential for the Wild. As the season approaches, the Wild is preparing for their preseason games, with their regular-season opener set for October 9. The team is eager to build on the extension of their best player and have high hopes for a more successful campaign ahead.