Kirill Kaprizov big contract: Wild sign 8-year, $136M NHL record

Kirill Kaprizov has signed a big contract with the Minnesota Wild. The deal is eight years and worth $136 million. It starts in the 2026–27 season and runs through 2033–34.

The average annual value is $17 million. It is the richest contract in NHL history by total value and AAV, according to multiple reports and the team. The Wild announced the agreement on Tuesday in Saint Paul.

Kaprizov big contract details and what it means for the Wild

The extension locks in Minnesota’s franchise star for eight seasons at $17 million per year. The club said the contract begins next season, preserving cap flexibility for 2025–26 while giving long-term security. General manager Bill Guerin announced the news and framed it as a cornerstone move for the organization.

Kaprizov, 28, could have become an unrestricted free agent next summer. That risk is now off the table. The new AAV sets a league benchmark and underscores his value after another high-impact year. He posted 56 points in only 41 games last season as he returned from injury late and still produced at an elite rate.

The record status matters in two ways. First, it sets the market for top forwards approaching free agency. Second, it signals ownership’s commitment to contend through the decade. Local and national outlets described it as the richest deal in league history when finalized.

Talks had trended positive this month. Earlier in September, owner Craig Leipold said the sides were “not that far off” on term and value. The new agreement confirms that optimism and ends speculation about trade scenarios or offer-sheet drama.

Analysis and broader impact

This contract resets the top of the NHL pay scale. It will shape upcoming negotiations for other premier scorers and MVP-level wingers. Agents will now point to $17 million AAV as the ceiling for elite production in prime years.

For Minnesota, the path is clearer. The Wild can build around a proven driver who has led the team in scoring in four of five seasons and owns a Calder Trophy. Roster planning now centers on complementary scoring, special teams support, and health management for a deep playoff push.

Bottom line: the Kirill Kaprizov big contract locks a franchise talent through 2034. It is an NHL record and a statement of intent from the Wild. The team now knows its core and cost structure for years to come.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the exact value and length of Kaprizov’s new deal?

Eight years, $136 million total. The average annual value is $17 million.

Q2: When does the contract start?

It begins with the 2026–27 NHL season and runs through 2033–34.

Q3: Is this the biggest contract in NHL history?

Yes. It is widely reported as the richest NHL contract by total value and AAV as of September 30, 2025.

Q4: How did Kaprizov perform last season?

He recorded 56 points in 41 games after returning from injury late in the year. {index=11}

Q5: Were negotiations close before the deal?

Yes. Earlier in September, ownership said the sides were “not that far off,” and the deal followed soon after.