In the world of professional hockey, two names stand as towering pillars of excellence, separated by eras but united by their monumental impact and wealth. Wayne Gretzky, the legendary "Great One," and Connor McDavid, the current captain of the Edmonton Oilers and the modern maestro of the game, represent the pinnacle of NHL success. Their journeys, while decades apart, paint a fascinating picture of how supreme talent, coupled with sharp business acumen, can forge legacies worth hundreds of millions of dollars.
Breaking Down the Massive Net Worth and NHL Contracts
The financial empires built by these athletes are staggering. According to Celebrity Net Worth, Connor McDavid's net worth is estimated at approximately $30 million. This figure is rapidly growing, fueled by his current peak performance. In stark contrast, the retired icon Wayne Gretzky boasts a colossal net worth of around $250 million, a testament to his record-shattering career and brilliant post-retirement business ventures. Combined, their wealth exceeds a remarkable $280 million.
The structure of their earnings highlights the evolution of the league. Connor McDavid is locked into a massive 8-year, $100 million contract with the Edmonton Oilers. For the 2024-25 season, this includes a $7 million signing bonus and a $3 million base salary, bringing his annual average value to $12.5 million. On the other hand, during his entire 20-year career spanning teams like the Oilers, Los Angeles Kings, St. Louis Blues, and New York Rangers, Wayne Gretzky earned a total salary of about $46 million. Adjusted for inflation and considering his era, he was among the highest-paid athletes globally.
Business Ventures and Endorsement Deals Beyond the Rink
Their influence extends far beyond the ice, into the lucrative realms of endorsements and entrepreneurship. McDavid, capitalizing on his status as the face of the modern NHL, has secured major partnerships. His portfolio includes deals with Alo Yoga, BetMGM, BodyArmor, and Rogers Communications. He has also ventured into startup investments, such as with the mobile platform Buzzer.
Wayne Gretzky has constructed a veritable business empire. His ventures include part-ownership of the Phoenix Coyotes (formerly), executive roles with the Oilers Entertainment Group, and his signature Wayne Gretzky Estates. He has also launched hospitality brands like No. 99 Wine & Whiskey and maintained historic endorsement partnerships with giants like Nike, Coca-Cola, Domino's, and Upper Deck.
Palatial Homes and Luxury Lifestyles
The lavish lifestyles of these hockey kings mirror their financial success. Connor McDavid resides in a custom-built, 6,400-square-foot mansion in Edmonton, described as palace-like. The property is equipped with a home theater, an indoor sports court, and a gym. His garage features an impressive collection of luxury cars, including a Porsche 911 GT2 RS, a Lamborghini Huracán, and an Audi R8.
Wayne Gretzky enjoys the fruits of his long-established legacy. He owns a $13.5 million mansion in Thousand Oaks, complete with a vineyard. His passion for luxury cars and collecting valuable memorabilia has been a well-documented aspect of his life for decades. Both athletes have crafted homes that blend supreme comfort with performance-oriented amenities, often centered around family.
The combined net worth of Connor McDavid and Wayne Gretzky, exceeding $280 million, loudly proclaims their status as legends. They exemplify how extraordinary skill, when paired with marketability and smart investments, can create a lasting legacy that transcends active playing years. Their stories are not just about sports records, but about building financial dynasties that define their respective eras in the NHL.
