David Pastrňák has become not only a franchise player for the Boston Bruins but also one of the NHL’s highest-paid and most impactful stars. His contracts reflect both his on-ice value and his long-term role within the organization. This article breaks down his contract history, compares his market value to other top players, and explores what the future might hold—whether in Boston or elsewhere.
Contract Timeline with Boston Bruins
David Pastrňák’s journey with the Boston Bruins is as much about loyalty and growth as it is about talent. From a promising draft pick to one of the league’s most valuable assets, his contractual milestones chart the evolution of both player and franchise. Each deal reflects his rising status and the Bruins’ commitment to keeping him as a cornerstone.
Rookie Contract and First Extension
After being drafted 25th overall in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, Pastrňák signed his entry-level contract on July 15, 2014. It was a standard three-year deal under the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) terms, including:
- Base salary: $832,500 per year
- Performance bonuses: Up to $2.85 million annually
- Total cap hit potential: $925,000 (base), plus bonuses
His early NHL performance—especially his breakout in 2016–17 with 70 points—prompted the Bruins to lock him in for the long term.
On September 14, 2017, he signed his first major extension:
- Length: 6 years (2017–2023)
- Total value: $40 million
- Average annual value (AAV): $6.67 million
At the time, it was viewed as one of the best-value contracts in the NHL, considering his rapid offensive rise and chemistry with Boston’s top line.
Recent Long-Term Deal Details
Recognizing Pastrňák’s superstar status and crucial role, the Bruins secured him with a blockbuster extension in early 2023.
New contract details (signed: March 2, 2023):
- Length: 8 years (through 2030–31)
- Total value: $90 million
- AAV: $11.25 million
- Signing bonuses: Structured annually to provide cap efficiency and security
- No-movement clause (NMC): Full NMC throughout all eight years
This contract immediately made Pastrňák one of the highest-paid wingers in NHL history, cementing his role as the Bruins’ offensive leader and brand figurehead.
Boston’s GM Don Sweeney described the deal as a “necessary step to keep a generational scorer in black and gold.” It was well received by both analysts and fans, who saw it as a justified commitment to a proven elite forward in his prime.
Market Value and Comparisons
David Pastrňák’s 2023 contract extension placed him in elite financial territory within the NHL. But how does his compensation compare to other top forwards? And does his on-ice production support that valuation? This section puts his deal into perspective, both through salary rankings and advanced performance metrics.
Among NHL’s Highest Paid Forwards?
With an average annual value (AAV) of $11.25 million, Pastrňák’s contract ranks him among the top 10 highest-paid forwards in the NHL as of the 2024–25 season. Here’s how he compares to other elite scorers:
| Player | Team | AAV (USD) | Contract Length |
| Connor McDavid | Edmonton Oilers | $12.5M | 8 years |
| Auston Matthews | Toronto Maple Leafs | $13.25M | 4 years (2024–28) |
| Nathan MacKinnon | Colorado Avalanche | $12.6M | 8 years |
| David Pastrňák | Boston Bruins | $11.25M | 8 years |
| Artemi Panarin | New York Rangers | $11.64M | 7 years |
| Mitch Marner | Toronto Maple Leafs | $10.9M | 6 years |
While he may not top the list, Pastrňák’s number reflects his consistency, age, and marketability. His contract is seen as both competitive and justified—especially considering he signed it entering his prime years.
Statistical Justification of Salary
When comparing performance to salary, Pastrňák’s numbers hold up among the league’s best.
Scoring metrics (as of end of 2023–24 season):
- Goals (2022–23): 61 (2nd in NHL)
- Points (2023–24): 110 (Top 5 in NHL)
- Goals per Game (last 3 seasons average): 0.65
- Shooting percentage: Consistently around 15%, well above league average
- Power play production: Top-tier PP goals and shot volume
Advanced stats:
- Corsi For %: 56.3 — indicates strong puck possession when he’s on the ice
- Expected Goals (xG): Ranks among the top 10 NHL forwards over past three seasons
- WAR (Wins Above Replacement): Consistently in the upper echelon for forwards league-wide
These figures show that Pastrňák isn’t just being paid for past performance—he’s delivering elite value in the present and is projected to remain a top contributor well into his 30s.
Future with Bruins or Transfer Rumors?
With a long-term contract in place, David Pastrňák appears firmly tied to Boston. However, the unpredictable nature of professional sports always leaves room for speculation. Whether he stays a Bruin for life or one day moves on, Pastrňák’s future remains a topic of interest for fans, analysts, and rival teams alike.
Potential Fit in Other NHL Teams
Though no credible trade rumors are circulating as of 2025, some analysts occasionally speculate on where Pastrňák could fit if the Bruins ever entered a rebuilding phase or if cap pressures forced a shakeup.
Potential theoretical fits:
- New Jersey Devils: A team rich in young talent and looking for veteran scoring to solidify a playoff push.
- Los Angeles Kings: With their large-market appeal and history of attracting stars, Pastrňák could thrive in their offensive system.
- Carolina Hurricanes: Known for analytics-driven roster building and strong team structure—an ideal match for a plug-and-play sniper.
- Vegas Golden Knights: Frequently in the mix for big-name talent and willing to make bold moves.
However, any trade would be extremely complicated:
- Pastrňák’s no-movement clause (NMC) gives him full control over any potential transfer.
- His $11.25M AAV requires significant cap flexibility from any suitor.
In short: while hypotheticals exist, real-world obstacles make a transfer highly unlikely barring a major franchise overhaul.
Legacy in Boston if He Stays
If Pastrňák remains with the Bruins through the end of his current contract (2031), he will likely go down as one of the greatest players in franchise history.
Possible legacy highlights:
- Top 3 in all-time goals and points for the Bruins (currently climbing the charts)
- Leader of the post-Bergeron era, helping maintain competitiveness during a transitional period
- Face of the franchise across two decades, much like Ray Bourque or Patrice Bergeron
- Potential jersey retirement and inclusion in Bruins Legends Row
In addition to his stats, Pastrňák is beloved in Boston for his energy, humility, and connection with fans. His legacy is being built not just through goals, but through loyalty, leadership, and the joy he brings to the game.
If he continues his current pace and stays healthy, Pastrňák could one day be seen not just as one of Boston’s greats—but as the defining Bruin of his generation.