Minnesota Wild Star’s Next Contract Could Leave Oilers Forward Leon Draisaitl’s $112 Million Deal In The Dust, Per Insider

One Minnesota Wild star stands at the center of what could become the most expensive contract in NHL history. The left winger is reportedly close to signing an extension that would shatter Leon Draisaitl’s $112 million record, with league insiders suggesting his annual salary could hit $15 million. While no deal has been finalized, the buzz around these negotiations is already reshaping how teams think about superstar contracts.

Could Kirill Kaprizov Become the NHL’s Highest-Paid Player?
Kirill Kaprizov, 28, becomes eligible to sign a new contract this summer. With his current five-year, $45 million deal ending after the 2025-26 season, Minnesota is working to lock up its franchise cornerstone. League insiders suggest his new annual average salary could approach or even exceed $15 million, which would place him among the league’s top earners.

The timing of Kaprizov’s extension is being closely watched across the league. Though Connor McDavid is expected to earn more when his new contract takes effect, Kaprizov could briefly hold the title as the NHL’s highest-paid player, depending on when each deal kicks in.

Chris Johnston, speaking on the “Steve Dangle Podcast,” noted that “it wouldn’t surprise me if he gets something like $15 million.” He also pointed out that if Kaprizov stays in Minnesota, he’ll likely be one of the last players to sign an eight-year contract due to upcoming changes in the CBA.

Chris Johnston: Re Kirill Kaprizov extension: I believe he’ll get more than Draisaitl; it wouldn’t surprise me if he got something like 15 million – Steve Dangle Podcast (Jul 15)

— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) July 20, 2025

Starting next summer, other teams will be limited to offering six-year deals to free agents, giving the Wild a unique advantage in extension talks.

Despite dealing with injuries during the 2024-25 season, Kaprizov still put up solid numbers with 25 goals and 31 assists in 41 games. In the postseason, he added five goals and four assists in just six games. His scoring pace, leadership, and impact on the team’s success make him a clear priority for general manager Bill Guerin.

The Wild are reportedly determined to keep their star forward long-term. Guerin recently appeared on “The FAN Hockey Show” and expressed confidence that the organization “obviously loves” Kaprizov and believes an extension will get done.

“I think Kirill likes it here, it’s a good fit. We obviously love him, he’s a great player. These are things that sometimes just take time, and you just have to work through it, but we want Kirill here for his entire career, and we’ll just work through it,” he explained.

MORE: MINNESOTA WILD EXPECTED TO FOLLOW IN FOOTSTEPS OF NHL STAR

Why Is the Timing Perfect for Minnesota?
The NHL’s rising salary cap is playing a significant role in these contract projections. With more financial room for teams league-wide, player salaries are expected to climb sharply over the next few seasons. Minnesota, recognizing this shift, appears willing to pay top dollar to secure its top scorer.

Beyond the financial aspects, Kaprizov’s connection to Minnesota strengthens the Wild’s negotiating position. He has spoken fondly about the city and the organization, calling the state a “second home” in a recent interview.

Kirill Kaprizov talks about his leadership throughout the 2024-2025 season how Minnesota has become a second home

Watch full interviews here » https://t.co/qkIPkhkbxZ pic.twitter.com/pRpDRiSglx

— Minnesota Wild (@mnwild) May 4, 2025

He’s also been active in the community and has embraced a leadership role within the team, factors that make him more than just a high-scoring forward.

If a deal gets finalized, it would mark a historic moment for the Minnesota Wild organization while potentially setting a new standard for player contracts across the NHL. The negotiations continue, with both sides expressing optimism about reaching an agreement that keeps Kaprizov in Minnesota for years to come.