Minnesota Wild star Kirill Kaprizov has reportedly declined an eight‐year extension worth US$128 million, a deal that would have made him the highest‐paid player in NHL history. The contract offer presented by the Wild would have exceeded the existing record held by Edmonton Oilers forward Leon Draisaitl, whose eight‐year, US$112 million contract currently tops NHL totals and average annual values.
Minnesota Wild star Kirill Kaprizov has reportedly declined an eight‐year extension worth US$128 million, a deal that would have made him the highest‐paid player in NHL history. The contract offer—presented by the Wild would have exceeded the existing record held by Edmonton Oilers forward Leon Draisaitl, whose eight‐year, US$112 million contract currently tops NHL totals and average annual values.
Kaprizov still has one season remaining under his current five‐year, US$45 million agreement signed in 2021. He is set to become an unrestricted free agent following the 2025‑26 season.
Wild owner Craig Leipold has expressed optimism that a deal still could be reached. He praised Kaprizov not only as an outstanding hockey player but also as an exceptional person, and said that while the offer rejected was substantial, both sides aren’t far from agreement.
Despite battling injuries this past season, Kaprizov had an impressive stat line: 56 points (25 goals, 31 assists) in just 41 games, and over his NHL career he has accumulated 386 points in 319 games.
In turning down the record‐setting proposal, Kaprizov appears to be holding out either for a higher average annual value, different contract terms, or just more control over his future—though what his exact demands are remains uncertain.
Kaprizov still has one season remaining under his current five‐year, US$45 million agreement signed in 2021. He is set to become an unrestricted free agent following the 2025‑26 season.
Wild owner Craig Leipold has expressed optimism that a deal still could be reached. He praised Kaprizov not only as an outstanding hockey player but also as an exceptional person, and said that while the offer rejected was substantial, both sides aren’t far from agreement.
Despite battling injuries this past season, Kaprizov had an impressive stat line: 56 points (25 goals, 31 assists) in just 41 games, and over his NHL career he has accumulated 386 points in 319 games.
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