Wayne Gretzky, also known as “The Great One,” is considered to be the best ice hockey player of all time. He played for 20 seasons in the National Hockey League (NHL) and set numerous records and achievements during his career. One of his most notable feats was signing the highest contract in NHL history.

In 1988, Gretzky was traded to the Los Angeles Kings from the Edmonton Oilers in a deal that shocked the hockey world. The Kings knew that they had to pay a hefty price to acquire such a talented player, so they offered Gretzky a contract worth $15 million over five years. This made him the highest-paid athlete in North America at the time.

Gretzky’s contract included bonuses for reaching certain milestones and awards. For example, he received a bonus of $1 million for winning the Stanley Cup, $250,000 for winning the Hart Trophy (awarded to the NHL’s Most Valuable Player), and $50,000 for making the All-Star team. These bonuses were meant to motivate Gretzky to perform at his best and to also incentivize his teammates.

The impact of Gretzky’s contract went beyond just the financial aspect. It established a new benchmark for player salaries in the NHL and set the standard for future contracts. Many players who followed in Gretzky’s footsteps received higher salaries because of his precedent. The league also saw an increase in its popularity, as Gretzky’s move to Los Angeles brought more attention to the sport in America.

Gretzky’s impact on the NHL and his record-breaking contract have left a lasting legacy on the sport. His career earnings totalled over $46 million, and he remains a legend in the hockey world. As we look back on his accomplishments, we can see the significance of his contract and how it changed the game forever.