NHL franchise values rise at record rates, but one player agent isn't happy about it

With 2023 winding down, Sportico, a Sports business company, has released their valuations for all 32 franchises in the National Hockey League and for every team, it's positive news.

Overall, the average NHL franchise is worth $1.31 billion USD, which is a 29 percent increase from 2022.

As was the case in 2021 and 2022, the Toronto Maple Leafs lead the way on Sportico's list, with them being valued at $2.65 billion USD, a $500 million jump (25%) when compared to last year.

The New York Rangers ($2.45 billion USD), Montreal Canadiens ($2.27 billion USD), Chicago Blackhawks ($1.84 billion USD) and Boston Bruins ($1.78 billion USD) round out the top-five. The league only 'Original Six' franchise not in the top-six is the Detroit Red Wings, who sit in 10th ($1.37 billion USD).


For some context, here is how Sportico calculates the value of all 32 National Hockey League franchises:


At the other end of the spectrum, the Arizona Coyotes find themselves in 32nd overall, once again, but have made a 45% jump compared to 2022 and are currently valued at $675 million USD. The Columbus Blue Jackets (31st - $880 million USD), Buffalo Sabres (30th - $900 million USD), Florida Panthers (29th - $910 million USD) and Winnipeg Jets (28th - $925 million USD) round out the bottom-five.


Despite the climb in franchise values one agent pointed out the significant lack of growth everywhere else.