6 bargains and 6 salary burdens in the NHL

The Russian winger is currently experiencing his breakout season, as he is the top scorer for the Jackets this year. Paid $3.85 million (US) until 2027.

The 24-year-old left winger earns only $1.8 million (US), representing one of the solid bargains in 2024-2025.

The 24-year-old Belarusian receives 3.375 million dollars (US).

Being part of numerous trade rumors last year, the Jackets made the right choice by retaining his services. A real bargain at 1.8 million dollars (US).

This former first-round pick in 2019 commands a salary of $2.1 million (US). He has become an important member of the Capitals, and this at a low cost to the salary cap.

Just like the Jets, Vilardi is having success in 2024-2025, as he has managed to stay healthy so far. At $3.437 million (US), he represents a great bargain for Winnipeg.

When Grubauer joined Seattle in 2021, the Kraken thought they had secured their number one goalie. However, the German has never performed up to the level of his $5.9 million (US) contract, and he currently finds himself in the AHL.

Although having a season of redemption, the Quebecer is not performing up to the level of his 10.5 million dollars (US) contract since arriving in Calgary.

The 37-year-old veteran has a $7 million (US) cap hit until 2026, having been on a downward slope for 5 years. Is retirement coming soon for the Quebecer?

Recently traded to the Anaheim Ducks, the tough defenseman is being paid 8 million dollars (US) until 2026. Let’s just say it’s a far cry from the Trouba who recorded 50 points with the Jets in 2018-2019.

At $9.25 million (US), Nurse is one of the highest-paid defensemen in the NHL, even if his contribution leaves the Oilers wanting more.

The Bruins made a big move last summer by signing Swedish center Elias Lindholm, but it has been a failure as of today. Notably, the 30-year-old center has an average salary of 7.75 million dollars (US) until 2031. Boston is not out of the woods yet.