Jack Eichel Signs $108 Million Extension with Golden Knights

Las Vegas, Nevada – Jack Eichel has signed an eight-year contract extension worth $108 million with the Vegas Golden Knights, the team announced Wednesday. The deal, which averages $13.5 million annually, will take effect starting in the 2026-27 season.

The announcement came just hours before the Golden Knights’ season opener against the Los Angeles Kings. Eichel, 28, had been in discussions with the team throughout training camp, aiming to finalize a long-term agreement before the season began.

Once the extension begins, Eichel will be the third-highest-paid player in the NHL in terms of average annual value (AAV), behind fellow players Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews. This extension comes as Eichel was entering the final year of his previous contract, which had a $10 million cap hit. He originally signed this deal with the Buffalo Sabres after being drafted second overall in the 2015 NHL Draft.

The Golden Knights acquired Eichel from the Sabres in a trade during 2021. The move followed his desire for an artificial disk replacement surgery to address a neck injury, a procedure that had never been performed on an active NHL player before. Eichel’s agent, Pat Brisson, emphasized the significance of the surgery in his career.

The procedure proved successful, and several other NHL players have since benefited from it. Following his recovery, Eichel played a crucial role in helping the Golden Knights secure their first Stanley Cup title in 2023, contributing 26 points in 22 playoff games.

Brisson praised Eichel’s groundbreaking surgery, referring to him as a pioneer. “Vegas stepped to the plate and helped the process occur. They’ve since won the Cup. It’s a great place for him, and he’s really happy with the decision,” Brisson said.

Furthermore, Eichel has been named one of six players who will represent Team USA at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics. The Golden Knights are expected to be strong Stanley Cup contenders this season, particularly after acquiring additional talent this summer. Eichel is expected to play alongside winger Mitch Marner on Vegas’ top line during the matchup against the Kings.

This contract extension also removes Eichel from the upcoming free agent market, which could have seen several other high-profile players. Eichel’s new pact marks another significant retention for a team eager to maintain its competitive edge.