Average Salary Of An Ahl Hockey Player
When it comes to professional ice hockey in North America, the NHL is the highest level of competition. However, there is a level of hockey just below that which can still offer quite a lucrative career for players who have yet to make it to the big leagues. This level is known as the American Hockey League, or AHL. In this article, we will take a look at the average salary of an AHL hockey player.
What Is The AHL?
The AHL is a professional ice hockey league that primarily operates in the United States and Canada. It was founded in 1936, and its teams are affiliated with NHL teams. In other words, AHL teams serve as a farm system for NHL teams, developing players who are not quite ready for the highest level of competition but have the potential to make it there in the future.
Average AHL Player Salary
The average salary of an AHL player can vary depending on a number of factors such as experience, position, and performance. According to the Professional Hockey Players' Association (PHPA), the average salary for an AHL player in the 2018-2019 season was $90,000 USD.
This is a significant increase from the average AHL salary in the 2010-2011 season, which was just $65,000 USD. However, it is important to note that this figure is still significantly lower than the minimum salary for an NHL player. The minimum salary in the NHL for the 2020-2021 season is $700,000 USD.
Factors That Affect AHL Player Salaries
As mentioned previously, there are a number of factors that can affect an AHL player's salary. One of the biggest factors is experience. Players who have been in the league for several years and have proven themselves to be consistent performers are likely to command higher salaries than rookies or players who have yet to establish themselves.
Another factor that can affect an AHL player's salary is position. Goaltenders tend to be paid more than skaters due to the specialized nature of their position. Additionally, players who are known for their offensive contributions such as forwards and offensive-minded defensemen are likely to be paid more than players who are primarily defensive in nature.
Finally, a player's performance on the ice can have a significant impact on their salary. Players who are consistently putting up points or making game-changing plays are likely to be rewarded with higher salaries than players who are struggling to produce.
Conclusion
While the average salary of an AHL player is significantly lower than that of an NHL player, it is still possible to have a lucrative career playing at this level. The AHL provides players with an opportunity to develop their skills and prove themselves to NHL teams, and those who are successful can go on to have long and successful careers at the highest level of competition.