In the 2022/23 season, the National Hockey League franchise Toronto Maple Leafs had the highest operating income in the league. The Maple Leafs, who play their home games at the Scotiabank Arena, reported an operating income of *** million U.S. dollars in 2023. At the other end of the scale, the Ottawa Senators reported an operating income of *** million U.S. dollars in the same season.

The Edmonton Oilers and the Toronto Maple Leafs had the highest revenue out of all the National Hockey League franchises in 2023. In that year, the two teams each had a gross revenue of *** million U.S. dollars.

The average revenue per team in the National Hockey League (NHL) reached the highest value in the 2022/23 season based on figures available since 2005/06. In the 2022/23 season, the average revenue was just over *** million U.S. dollars.

This dataset contains comprehensive player statistics and contract details for the 2024-25 National Hockey League (NHL) season. It merges both on-ice performance metrics and contractual information, making it valuable for fans, analysts, sports journalists, and data scientists interested in exploring hockey performance, salary cap dynamics, and advanced analytics.

• With over 1,100 players and 40 different variables, the dataset enables research on topics such as:
• Correlation between performance and salary (e.g., goals vs. average annual value).
• Team-level performance across conferences and divisions.
• Comparisons by age, position, and role.
• Insights into faceoff, time-on-ice, and situational play statistics

A company’s franchise value refers, in part, to the value of cash flows that result from the maintenance and renewal of its assets and liabilities. In 2024, the Toronto Maple Leafs reported the highest franchise value of any team in the National Hockey League (NHL). Following behind was The New York Rangers, with a franchise value of 3.5 billion U.S. dollars. Other teams near the top of the ranking included the Montreal Canadiens and the Los Angeles Kings. What is the total revenue of the New York Rangers? The revenue of the New York Rangers amounted to 265 million U.S. dollars in the 2022/23 season. Due to the season being curtailed by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the New York rangers reported significantly less revenue in 2020/21. During that period, the New York Rangers reported revenue of 94 million U.S. dollars. The team’s revenue peaked in the 2018/19 season at 270 million. How much are New York Rangers players paid? In the 2022/23 season, New York Rangers player expenses amounted to 92 million U.S. dollars. This figure showed a significant increase compared to the previous year’s total of 76 million. Although the company’s revenue and player expenses saw a steep drop in 2020/21 as a result of the pandemic, player expenses had previously been decreasing over the past five years.

Context & Content

This dataset features the salaries of 874 nhl players for the 2016/2017 season. I have randomly split the players into a training (612 players) and test (262 players) populations. There are 151 predictor columns (described in column legend section, if you're not familiar with hockey the meaning of some of these may be a bit cryptic!) as well as a leading column with the players 2016/2017 annual salary. For the test population the actual salaries have been broken off into a separate .csv file.

Acknowledgements

Raw excel sheet was acquired http://www.hockeyabstract.com/

Inspiration

Can you build a model to predict NHL player's salaries? What are the best predictors of how much a player will make?

Column Legend

Acronym - Meaning

%FOT - Percentage of all on-ice faceoffs taken by this player.

+/- - Plus/minus

1G - First goals of a game

A/60 - Events Against per 60 minutes, defaults to Corsi, but can be set to another stat

A1 - First assists, primary assists

A2 - Second assists, secondary assists

BLK% - Percentage of all opposing shot attempts blocked by this player

Born - Birth date

C.Close - A player shot attempt (Corsi) differential when the game was close

C.Down - A player shot attempt (Corsi) differential when the team was trailing

C.Tied - A player shot attempt (Corsi) differential when the team was tied

C.Up - A player shot attempt (Corsi) differential when the team was in the lead

CA - Shot attempts allowed (Corsi, SAT) while this player was on the ice

Cap Hit - The player's cap hit

CBar - Crossbars hit

CF - The team's shot attempts (Corsi, SAT) while this player was on the ice

CF.QoC - A weighted average of the Corsi percentage of a player's opponents

CF.QoT - A weighted average of the Corsi percentage of a player's linemates

CHIP - Cap Hit of Injured Player is games lost to injury multiplied by cap hit per game

City - City of birth

Cntry - Country of birth

DAP - Disciplined aggression proxy, which is hits and takeaways divided by minor penalties

DFA - Dangerous Fenwick against, which is on-ice unblocked shot attempts weighted by shot quality

DFF - Dangerous Fenwick for, which is on-ice unblocked shot attempts weighted by shot quality

DFF.QoC - Quality of Competition metric based on Dangerous Fenwick, which is unblocked shot attempts weighted for shot quality

DftRd - Round in which the player was drafted

DftYr - Year drafted

Diff - Events for minus event against, defaults to Corsi, but can be set to another stat

Diff/60 - Events for minus event against, per 60 minutes, defaults to Corsi, but can be set to another stat

DPS - Defensive point shares, a catch-all stats that measures a player's defensive contributions in points in the standings

DSA - Dangerous shots allowed while this player was on the ice, which is rebounds plus rush shots

DSF - The team's dangerous shots while this player was on the ice, which is rebounds plus rush shots

DZF - Shifts this player has ended with an defensive zone faceoff

dzFOL - Faceoffs lost in the defensive zone

dzFOW - Faceoffs win in the defensive zone

dzGAPF - Team goals allowed after faceoffs taken in the defensive zone

dzGFPF - Team goals scored after faceoffs taken in the defensive zone

DZS - Shifts this player has started with an defensive zone faceoff

dzSAPF - Team shot attempts allowed after faceoffs taken in the defensive zone

dzSFPF - Team shot attempts taken after faceoffs taken in the defensive zone

E+/- - A player's expected +/-, based on his team and minutes played

ENG - Empty-net goals

Exp dzNGPF - Expected goal differential after faceoffs taken in the defensive zone, based on the number of them

Exp dzNSPF - Expected shot differential after faceoffs taken in the defensive zone, based on the number of them

Exp ozNGPF - Expected goal differential after faceoffs taken in the offensive zone, based on the number of them

Exp ozNSPF - Expected shot differential after faceoffs taken in the offensive zone, based on the number of them

F.Close - A player unblocked shot attempt (Fenwick) differential when the game was close

F.Down - A player unblocked shot attempt (Fenwick) differential when the team was trailing

F.Tied - A player unblocked shot attempt (Fenwick) differential when the team was tied

F.Up - A player unblocked shot attempt (Fenwick) differential when the team was in the lead. Not the best acronym.

F/60 - Events For per 60 minutes, defaults to Corsi, but can be set to another stat

FA - Unblocked shot attempts allowed (Fenwick, USAT) while this player was on the ice

FF - The team's unblocked shot attempts (Fenwick, USAT) while this player was on the ice

First Name -

FO% - Faceoff winning percentage

FO%vsL - Faceoff winning percentage against lefthanded opponents

FO%vsR - Faceoff winning percentage against righthanded opponents

FOL - The team's faceoff losses...

The National Hockey League (NHL) is a professional ice hockey league in North America made up of 30 franchises, with 23 located in the United States and seven in Canada. In the 2022/23 season, the total league revenue of the NHL was **** billion U.S. dollars. What is the total revenue of the NFL? The National Football League (NFL) is the most profitable professional sports league in the United States. Over the past fifteen years, the total revenue of all NFL teams consistently increased, rising from about **** billion U.S. dollars in 2001 to over ** billion U.S. dollars in 2022, which was the highest figure to date What is the total revenue of the NBA? The National Basketball Association (NBA) comprises 30 teams, 29 of which are located in the U.S. and one of which is located in Canada. Similar to the NHL, the NBA is one of the major professional sports leagues in the U.S. and Canada. In the 2022/23 season, the total revenue of all NBA teams amounted to over ** billion U.S. dollars. This figure marks a significant increase on the figure from the 2020/21 season, which stood at **** billion U.S. dollars.

The NHL stands as a huge commercial sports entity, with team partnerships cumulatively estimated to be worth $812.33 million this season. Sponsorship is also rife across the league operations itself, with the NHL itself banking a further $631 million this year. The new season has kick started a new era of national media rights distribution with ESPN and TNT pinching the rights off of NBC. All these strong commercial revenue streams should help foot the losses experienced during the global pandemic, with missed ticket revenue alone costing the teams a combined $1,366.79 million over the past two season. Read More

In the 2023/24 season, the National Hockey League franchise of the Toronto Maple Leafs had the highest player expenses within the league. The professional hockey team spent 108 million U.S. dollars on player salaries during that season.

In the 2023/24 season, the Toronto Maple Leafs had the highest revenue from regular season ticketing in the National Hockey League (NHL). The franchise generated *** billion U.S. dollars in revenue from gate receipts in the 2023/24 season.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Ice Hockey Equipment Market size was XX million by 2030, whereas its compound annual growth rate (CAGR) was XX% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the largest share of the global Ice Hockey Equipment market around XX% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of XX% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a share of over XX% of the global market size of USD XX million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around XX% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of XX% from 2024 to 2031.
The Latin American market is around XX% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of XX% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa held the major market of around XX% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of XX% from 2024 to 2031.

Market Dynamics of the Ice Hockey Equipment Market

Key Drivers of the Ice Hockey Equipment Market

Growing Ice Hockey Competition Participation is greatly expanding the market

Over time, there has been a significant surge in the demand for ice hockey. Because it is played on major national and international stages, ice hockey is one of the most popular sports in the world. Olympic Games, Grand Prix (Final), Challenger Series, World Team Trophy, Four Continents Championships, World Championships, and European Championships provide a stage for showcasing the intensity and talent of the sport, which increases demand for specialized equipment a few of these platforms. Renowned companies like CCM Hockey and New Balance Inc. sponsor and endorse products, which helps to build brand equity and encourages innovation in equipment design. It gives hockey equipment manufacturers tremendous chances to strengthen their brand by giving renowned players and teams sponsorships and endorsements to obtain a competitive edge.

• For instance: On Feb 02, 2024 – The National Hockey League (NHL), The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF), and the National Hockey League Players Association jointly announced plans for NHL players to compete in the Olympic Winter Games in 2026 and 2030.

https://www.iihf.com/en/news/58108/iihf_nhl_nhlpa_announce_plans_for_nhl_players_to_p

The market for ice hockey equipment has been greatly influenced by advancements in technology

The market for ice hockey equipment has been significantly shaped by technological developments. Manufacturers respond to the changing needs of players at all levels by continuously inventing novel techniques to improve the performance, comfort, and safety aspects of their equipment. Advanced padding systems, lightweight materials, and customizable features are examples of innovations that have changed players' experiences and preferences. Manufacturers are always trying to incorporate new technologies into their products to meet players' changing needs and give them an advantage over rivals on the ice. To increase protection, durability, and agility, advanced materials like impact-absorbing foams and lightweight composites are being used extensively in equipment designs. Furthermore, an increasing number of customization options are available, enabling players to tailor their equipment for the best fit and performance, which boosts sales and fosters brand loyalty. Technological innovations and developments frequently result in better goods, services, and procedures, which boost industry growth and competitiveness. Furthermore, technological developments have prompted the creation of high-performance gear to meet the demands of both amateur and professional athletes.

• For Instance: On Nov 28, 2023 - Specialised protective gear manufacturer G8Rtech, Inc., announced the release of G8Rskin Ice, an innovative product. The goal of G8Rskin Ice is to significantly decrease hockey players' risk of injuries, especially concussions and cuts. G8Rskin is a specialized shell that resembles a balaclava and is worn under sporting helmets to provide sportsmen with increased protection.

https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231128494213/en/G8RTech-A...

According to Cognitive Market Research, The global hockey equipment market covers essential infrastructure for both field and ice hockey, including goalposts, dasher boards, turf/ice maintenance tools, and modular systems. Demand is fueled by rising hockey popularity worldwide, increasing investments in sports infrastructure, and innovations in durable, automated maintenance solutions. Growth is strong across schools, arenas, training academies, and emerging hockey markets in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Market Dynamics of Hockey Equipment Market

Key Drivers of Hockey Equipment Market

Rising Global Popularity of Hockey

Hockey's popularity has surged beyond its North American roots to countries like Sweden, Russia, and Finland, creating a diverse global fanbase. With over 551,000 registered players in the U.S. and 30 million worldwide, hockey's adoption as a mainstream sport drives equipment demand. Canada, with thousands of indoor and outdoor rinks, remains a hockey powerhouse. The NHL, featuring top teams from the U.S. and Canada, fuels international interest, with legendary teams like the Montreal Canadiens inspiring generations. Major international tournaments further boost the sport’s global presence. This widespread enthusiasm significantly propels market growth.

(Source:https://thesporting.blog/blog/the-most-popular-sports-in-the-world)

Key Trends in Hockey Equipment Market

Shift Toward Eco-Friendly and Smart Equipment

The hockey equipment market is trending towards sustainability and technology integration. For example, the 2023 Hockey World Cup in Odisha featured eco-friendly synthetic turfs like Poligras Platinum GT, which reduce water use by 60-70% compared to older surfaces. These turfs use bio-based polyethylene derived from renewable sugarcane, making them carbon neutral. Further innovations include IoT-enabled smart training tools that monitor performance and impact. Looking ahead, the 2024 Paris Olympics aims to introduce waterless turf technology, with hopes for fully waterless hockey pitches by the 2026 World Cup. This shift supports environmental goals while enhancing player safety and performance.

(Source:https://sportstar.thehindu.com/hockey/hockey-world-cup-2023-astro-turf-pitches-playing-surfaces-water-usage-eco-friendly-odisha-rourkela-bhubaneswar/article66387236.ece)

Opportunities in Hockey Equipment Market

Global investments in hockey infrastructure are underway globally to meet rising demand. In 2024, the U.S. is boosting facilities ahead of the LA28 Olympics, including a new world-class training center in Charlotte, North Carolina. Meanwhile, by June 2025, construction of an international-standard hockey ground in Coimbatore, India, was 50% complete, featuring FIH-certified synthetic turf and modern amenities. These developments reflect a global push to upgrade venues and support athlete development at all levels. Such infrastructure projects create ongoing demand for advanced hockey equipment. This opportunity is expected to grow through the mid-2020s as facilities come online.

(Source:https://www.fih.hockey/2024/news/hockey-in-the-united-states-gearing-up-for-la28)

AI Integration Impact Analysis in the Global Hockey Equipment Market

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are transforming the global hockey equipment market by enabling smarter product design, personalized training, and improved injury prevention. AI-powered sensor technology and data analytics provide players and coaches with real-time insights, enhancing performance and safety across all levels of the sport.

Key examples include Drive Hockey, which offers affordable sensor-based tracking for amateur players, capturing thousands of data points per second to support skill development and injury prevention through detailed analytics. Professional teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs and Vegas Golden Knights use AI to tailor training programs, optimize strategies, and predict injury risks. AI also enhances equipment innovation, creating lighter and more responsive sticks and skates. Additionally, AI improves officiating accuracy with goal detection systems and supports sustainability efforts via tools like NHL Venue Metrics, which optimize arena energy use.

In summary, AI integration is driving innovation, safety, and performance in hockey equipment, benefiting players, coaches, and manufacturers alike. Embracing AI technologies is es...

The COVID-19 pandemic at the beginning of 2020 hit the sports industry hard. Many professional leagues across the globe suspended their seasons, including the National Hockey League in the United States. At the time the season was suspended in **********, the teams of the NHL had each played between ** and ** of their allocated ** home games. It is estimated that each team will lose an average of **** million U.S. dollars in ticket sales alone for each home game that is canceled due to the coronavirus.

American professional sports leagues are known for their high wages, and the National Hockey League is no different. In the 2019/20 season, the Minnesota Wild topped the table for average annual player salaries, giving each of its players an average of 3.32 million U.S. dollars. On the other end of the scale, players for the Toronto Maple Leafs took home an average of 1.54 million U.S. dollars during the season.

NHL minimum salary A minimum salary is in place in the National Hockey League to ensure that the players are fairly compensated for their endeavors. This minimum wage stood at 650 thousand U.S. dollars in 2019, a steady increase from the 500 thousand U.S. dollars minimum salary in place in 2011. Even though the LA Kings had the highest average salary in 2019, it was the Washington Capitals who topped the league for player expenses. The Capitals spent 85 million U.S. dollars on player expenses in 2018, whilst the Carolina Hurricanes spent the lowest in the league at 62 million U.S. dollars. The league-wide average payroll for the 2017/18 season stood at 75.35 million U.S. dollars, an increase of 25 million U.S. dollars on the figure from ten years before.

Highest paid players in the NHL The highest paid player in the NHL is the captain of the Edmonton Oilers and Canadian national team player, Connor McDavid. The 22-year old pocketed 19 million U.S. dollars in 2019, of which 15 million U.S. dollars came from his salary and a further four million was generated through endorsements. However, the honor of being the player who commands the highest salary in the league belongs to John Tavares - the Toronto Maple Leafs player had a yearly salary of 15.9 million U.S. dollars.

In the 2024 season, roughly ** percent of the revenue generated in the NHL was through seating and suites. Meanwhile, national revenue made up just under ********* of the revenue generated by the league in that season.

In the 2023/24 season, the revenue of the Swedish ice hockey group and association, Svenska Ishockeyförbundet, reached *** million Swedish kronor. It is an association of Swedish ice hockey clubs and inline hockey clubs. The association is involved in all levels of ice hockey practice in Sweden, from professional level to children's sports' clubs.

The Stanley Cup Finals is a championship series in the National Hockey League (NHL) that determines the Stanley Cup winner. In 2025, the average TV viewership was 2.5 million per game in the United States. The previous year, in 2024, average TV viewership in the U.S. amounted to 4.2 million. Which NHL Player has won the most Stanley Cups? The Stanley Cup is the championship trophy awarded annually to the team that wins the NHL playoffs. It is the oldest existing trophy awarded to a professional sports franchise in North America, and players are eager to have their team’s name engraved on it. As of 2023, the player with the most Stanley Cup wins of all time was Henri Richard. The centre won 11 Stanley Cups with the Montreal Canadiens between 1955 and 1975. What is the most valuable franchise in the NHL? A team’s franchise value is often based on a combination of factors such as revenue, profitability, brand strength, and team performance. In 2024, the Toronto Maple Leafs had the highest franchise value in the NHL at 3.8 billion U.S. dollars. Following close behind was the New York Rangers, with a franchise value of 3.5 billion U.S. dollars. Alongside being the NHL team with the most Stanley cup wins, the Montreal Canadiens had the third-highest franchise value in the league in 2024.

With each player taking home a handsome 8.32 million U.S. dollars every year, the NBA is the professional sports league with the highest player wages worldwide. In second place is the Indian Premier League, an annual cricket competition contested each year between eight franchises representing eight different Indian cities.

Big money in the NBA Although the wages that players in the NBA take home are astronomical, the average annual salaries vary from one team to another. Whilst the New York Knicks pay their players an average of 7.08 million U.S. dollars a year, Portland Trail Blazers spent around 10.04 million U.S. dollars annually on each of their stars in 2019/20. NBA salaries have tremendously increased throughout the years reaching 8.32 million U.S. dollars in 2019/20 compared to 4.6 million U.S. dollars in 2015/16.