The latest NHL agent poll from The Athletic has added a new angle to ongoing contract conversations across the league, especially around future salaries. While most agents pointed toward Connor McDavid as the likely highest-paid player by 2028-29, a few other names also entered the discussion.
Among them was Brady Tkachuk, who received a vote that drew attention. That selection became a talking point on The Chris Johnston Show, where insiders broke down what it could mean moving forward.
Insider Explains Why Brady Tkachuk Could Command a Mammoth Payday
Tkachuk became a focal point of discussion on the show after receiving a vote in the agent poll, and insider Chris Johnston outlined why that prediction may not be far-fetched.
“If a player is willing to use their leverage…,” Johnston said, “It’s not impossible,” explaining how upcoming contract cycles could reshape salary benchmarks.
“Here’s the thing. Right now, Connor McDavid has two years left on his deal, Auston Matthews has two years left on his deal… Cale Makar has one year left on his deal. Quinn Hughes has one year left on his deal. Zach Werenski has two years left on his deal… and then Celebrini is in this mix.
“[So] we’re going to have a number of pretty high-profile players get new contracts in the next one to two years. I’m willing to bet of the guys that could be UFAs, that possibly none of them hit UFA.”
With several elite players nearing new deals over the next couple of years, Johnston suggested the market could shift fast depending on how negotiations unfold. “If he’s willing to play it out and go to free agency July 1, 2028, maybe he does become the highest-paid player,” Johnston noted.
Tkachuk is currently in the middle of a 7-year, $57.56 million deal that carries an average annual value of just over $8.22 million, running through the 2027-28 season. The structure of the contract has brought a change this season, with a full no-movement clause now active, giving him control over any potential trade and strengthening his position as a long-term piece in Ottawa.
However, recent off-ice developments have complicated the picture. Comments made by his father, Keith Tkachuk, on the Wingmen podcast created tension around the organization, especially when he criticized players’ commitment and questioned coaching decisions.
Remarks like “mismanagement” and frustration over ice time sparked outside noise, even though Brady later clarified that those comments were not aimed at his own team. Still, the situation has fueled speculation about internal dynamics and long-term stability.
From a roster-building standpoint, Ottawa faces a difficult path if Tkachuk’s next contract climbs into the league’s top tier. The team already has close to $41 million committed to five core players, including Tim Stutzle, Linus Ullmark, Jake Sanderson, and Thomas Chabot.
With limited projected cap space, there is little flexibility already, and such a commitment would limit the team’s options to build a stronger team. That reality could force the front office to offer a limited amount of money to Tkachuk on his next extension. Free agency could be the other option.
As Johnston put it, “I think that’s a real prediction,” referencing the agent’s vote.
ALSO READ: Senators’ Brady Tkachuk Reveals Why He Has a ‘Glimmer of Hope’ That Alex Ovechkin Won’t Retire
