The hockey world is buzzing over recent revelations about coaching salaries, with many fans expressing disbelief that some coaches earn more than legendary players like Wayne Gretzky did during his playing career. While Gretzky's on-ice achievements are unparalleled, the economics of professional sports have changed dramatically over the decades, leading to significantly higher salaries for coaches in today's NHL.
Wayne Gretzky, often called "The Great One," played in the NHL for 20 seasons, from 1979 to 1999. During that time, he earned an impressive $46 million. When adjusted for inflation, his total career earnings amount to approximately $119.8 million in today's dollars. Gretzky's highest salaries came in the later years of his career, with earnings exceeding $3 million for four seasons in the early 1990s and peaking at $6.5 million in 1995-96 and 1997-98. In addition to his NHL salary, Gretzky also made a substantial amount through endorsement deals with major brands like Nike, Coca-Cola, and McDonald's, which added an estimated $50 million to his wealth. By 2025, Gretzky's estimated net worth is around $250 million, solidifying his status as one of the wealthiest hockey players ever.
In contrast, modern NHL coaches can command hefty salaries. While coaching salaries are not always as public as player contracts, it's understood that top-tier NHL head coaches can earn between $1 million and $5 million annually. Some recent examples highlight this trend. It was reported that Martin St-Louis, coach of the Montreal Canadiens, earns $2.9 million per year. While this salary is impressive, it doesn't top the list of highest-paid coaches. One of the most notable examples is Mike Sullivan, who signed a record contract with the New York Rangers in May 2025, reportedly earning $6.5 million per year.
The highest-paid coach in NHL history was Mike Babcock, who in 2015, signed an eight-year, $50 million contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs, averaging $6.25 million per season. This landmark deal more than doubled the previous record for coaching salaries. Although Babcock's tenure with the Maple Leafs ended in 2019, his contract set a new benchmark for coaching compensation in the league.
Several factors contribute to the rise in coaching salaries. The increasing emphasis on strategic planning, player development, and overall team management has elevated the value of experienced and successful coaches. In today's NHL, coaches are not just responsible for on-ice performance but also play a significant role in shaping team culture and fostering a winning environment. The pressure to deliver results, combined with the financial stakes of professional sports, has driven teams to invest heavily in securing top coaching talent.
While it may seem surprising that some coaches now earn more than a hockey legend like Wayne Gretzky did during his playing days, it reflects the evolution of the sport's financial landscape. The value of a skilled coach in maximizing a team's potential is now recognized with substantial compensation packages. As the NHL continues to evolve, coaching salaries are likely to remain a significant aspect of the game's economics.
