forbes.com
Ovechkin Breaks NHL Goal Record, Ties for Highest-Paid Active Player
Alex Ovechkin scored his 895th NHL regular-season goal on Sunday, surpassing Wayne Gretzky's record and tying him with Sidney Crosby as hockey's highest-paid active player, with estimated career earnings of $220 million.
- How did Ovechkin's contract negotiation strategy during the pandemic contribute to his high earnings?
- Ovechkin's record-breaking goal and high earnings highlight the increasing marketability of hockey stars, albeit still lagging behind other major sports. His savvy contract negotiation during the pandemic minimized escrow deductions, maximizing his income. His off-ice earnings, consistently above $2.5 million annually for 13 years, demonstrate his significant brand value.
- What is the significance of Alex Ovechkin's record-breaking goal and how does it impact his overall financial standing?
- Alex Ovechkin broke Wayne Gretzky's NHL record for regular-season goals, scoring his 895th goal on Sunday. His career earnings, estimated at $220 million by Forbes, tie him with Sidney Crosby as the highest-paid active hockey player. This includes $160 million in salary and $60 million from endorsements.
- What are the potential future implications of Ovechkin's career trajectory and its impact on the NHL's financial landscape?
- While Ovechkin's current contract expires after next season, his statement about returning to the KHL before retirement suggests a continued business focus, leveraging his legacy and brand. The NHL's growing revenue and marketing potential, along with Ovechkin's strategic moves, indicate a potential shift towards higher player earnings in the future.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames Ovechkin's story overwhelmingly positively, emphasizing his accomplishments and financial prowess. While acknowledging some challenges, such as the impact of the pandemic and his association with Putin, these are presented as minor setbacks within a largely triumphant narrative. The headline itself contributes to this positive framing. The focus on Ovechkin's financial success is prominent and could potentially overshadow other aspects of his career or legacy.
Language Bias
The language used is largely positive and celebratory, using words like "illustrious," "remarkable," and "triumphant." While such language is not inherently biased, the consistent positive tone contributes to the overall positive framing of Ovechkin's career. There's a lack of critical or negative language to balance the overwhelmingly positive descriptions.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on Ovechkin's financial success and record-breaking achievements, but it omits discussion of potential negative impacts of his association with Vladimir Putin, especially in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. While the article mentions this briefly, it lacks in-depth analysis of the potential consequences for his sponsorships and public image. This omission limits the reader's ability to form a complete understanding of Ovechkin's career and its complexities.
Sustainable Development Goals
Ovechkin's substantial earnings, while exceeding those of most hockey players, highlight the existing inequalities within professional sports. His success, however, can inspire and provide opportunities for future generations, potentially reducing inequality in the long run. The article also discusses how the NHL's revenue records are increasing, which could positively affect player salaries overall, leading to less disparity.