NHL insiders predict Jack Eichel’s next Golden Knights contract could be the most lucrative deal in league history

Jack Eichel is no stranger to the spotlight, but his next contract may take him into uncharted territory. After guiding the Vegas Golden Knights to their first Stanley Cup in 2023 and following it up with a career-best campaign in 2024/25, the superstar forward has positioned himself for a record-shattering payday.

Now, NHL insider Frank Seravalli has hinted that Eichel’s extension with Vegas could soar to an eye-watering $15 million per season.

Jack Eichel’s rise to record-breaking value

When the Golden Knights struck a blockbuster trade with the Buffalo Sabres in 2021, few could have predicted how quickly it would pay off. Eichel became the cornerstone of a championship team, proving his worth when it mattered most. His 28 goals and 94 points in 77 games during the 2024/25 season were not just impressive—they were a statement.

At just 28, Eichel is entering the prime of his career, and the timing could not be more perfect as free agency in 2026 looms.

The significance of his next deal is massive. Seravalli’s projection that it may eclipse Leon Draisaitl’s contract places Eichel in elite company, with only Connor McDavid standing as a potential challenger to the NHL’s highest annual salary. For Vegas, the decision seems clear: this is the player you build around.

How a $15 million Jack Eichel deal could shape Vegas’ roster

While keeping Eichel is a no-brainer, the financial ripple effect cannot be ignored. A jump to $15 million AAV means a $5 million annual hike, a figure that could squeeze the Golden Knights’ ability to re-sign other stars or chase marquee free agents. Depth has always been a cornerstone of their success, but such a deal forces tough choices.Still, Vegas knows one truth—superstars of Eichel’s caliber don’t come around often. He is more than a scorer; he is the identity of this franchise. If difficult roster moves are the cost of keeping him, the Golden Knights will almost certainly pay the price. After all, Eichel isn’t just their present—he’s their future.Also Read: NHL Trade Rumors: Mason McTavish’s contract talks with Ducks take twist after Marco Rossi’s surprising extension