Who is the highest-paid NHL player for the 2022-23 season?

Nathan MacKinnon secured his position as the highest-paid player in the NHL. He signed a contract extension in the offseason that nudged him ahead of Edmonton Oilers superstar Connor McDavid.

The All-Star forward has spent his entire career with the Colorado Avalanche. While he hasn't won some of the league's most prestigious individual awards, he did help the Avalanche win the Stanley Cup last June.

MacKinnon's new contract, which will kick in starting next season, is worth an average annual value of $12.6 million. He is earning $6.3 million this season.

While some fans may question whether MacKinnon is worth such a hefty salary, it's hard to argue against his impact on the Avalanche's success. The Nova Scotia native has been an integral part of the team since he was selected first overall by the Avalanche in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft.

He has consistently been one of the team's top scorers. He tallied a career-high 99 points in the 2018-19 season and has recorded at least 90 points in four of the last six seasons.

The second and third highest-paid NHL players.

The other highest paid players are Connor McDavid and Artemi Panarin.

#2. Connor McDavid

Being the second highest-paid player in the league, there is no denying that Connor McDavid is the best hockey player on the planet.

The 25-year-old center has already won two Hart Trophies as the NHL's most valuable player. He has dominated the league since his debut in 2015. His incredible speed, skill, and vision make him a nightmare for opposing teams.

McDavid signed an eight-year, $100 million contract extension with the Oilers in 2017, which made him the highest-paid player in the NHL at the time. While his average annual salary of $12.5 million is now second to MacKinnon, it's important to remember that McDavid's impact on the game goes far beyond his salary.

#3. Artemi Panarin

Artemi Panarin, known as the Bread Man, comes in at number three on the list of highest paid players. He currently plays for the New York Rangers and earns an average annual salary of $11.642 million.

Panarin signed a seven-year, $81.5 million contract with the Rangers on July 1, 2019. He still has four years left on his current deal. Panarin has proven himself to be worth the investment. He has consistently been one of the league's most productive players since joining the NHL.

Panarin notched a career-high 96 points during the 2021-22 campaign. He has recorded 80 points in 71 games so far this season. The 31-year old Russian is a skilled winger who can score goals and set up his teammates with ease, making him a valuable asset to the Rangers.

Panarin's contract is a reflection of his talent and impact on the game. It also speaks to the competitive nature of the league. Teams are willing to pay top dollar to elite players like Panarin in order to compete for the Stanley Cup.