NHL goalies face lower compensation relative to top skaters

The summer of 2026 has seen a surge in NHL player contracts, with record-breaking deals awarded to skaters like Leo Carlsson, Macklin Celebrini, and Cale Makar. As skater salaries climb, data indicates a growing pay gap between top forwards or defensemen and starting goaltenders. Igor Shesterkin currently holds the record for the highest-paid goalie at $11.5 million, which remains significantly lower than the league’s top skater salaries. While goalies are often considered vital to a team’s success, concerns over performance volatility and positional risk often influence contract negotiations. Despite the inherent unpredictability of the position, some argue that the market for elite net-minders needs to reset to better reflect their influence on game outcomes.

• 11:03 PMYahoo Sports — Are NHL goalies underpaid?