Mark Messier Net Worth

Mark Messier: Net Worth, Career, and Legacy of a Hockey Icon

What is Mark Messier’s Net Worth and Career Earnings?

Mark Messier, a name synonymous with hockey greatness, has amassed a net worth of $65 million. This substantial figure reflects not only his exceptional 25-year career in the National Hockey League (NHL) but also his continued success in broadcasting and business ventures. Throughout his illustrious career with the Edmonton Oilers, New York Rangers, and Vancouver Canucks, Messier established himself as one of the most revered players in the history of the sport. His achievements include six Stanley Cup championships and a remarkable second-place ranking in all-time playoff points, with a total of 295 points. The NHL recognized his leadership and dedication by creating the Mark Messier Leadership Award.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Mark Messier’s journey to hockey stardom began on January 18, 1961, in St. Albert, Alberta, Canada. Born to Doug and Mary-Jean Messier, he grew up with three siblings: Paul, Mary-Kay, and Jennifer. His family’s early years were marked by a move to Portland, Oregon, where his father played for the WHL’s Portland Buckaroos. The family returned to St. Albert in 1969, and Messier later attended St. Francis Xavier High School in Edmonton. This foundation set the stage for his remarkable hockey career.

Messier’s formal hockey career commenced in 1976 in junior hockey. He joined the Alberta Junior Hockey League’s Spruce Grove Mets, where his father was a coach. In his first season, Messier showcased his early talent with 66 points over 57 games. The team was renamed the St. Albert Saints the following season. As captain, Messier scored 74 points in 54 games. His performances led to playoff appearances with the WHL’s Portland Winterhawks. Messier’s journey continued to evolve during the 1978-79 season, with stints with the Saints, the WHA’s Indianapolis Racers, and the Cincinnati Stingers. These early experiences helped shape him into the versatile player that he would become.

Dominance with the Edmonton Oilers

In the 1979 NHL Entry Draft, the Edmonton Oilers selected Messier in the third round. He quickly proved to be a valuable asset, despite not initially being known for his scoring prowess. Over the next few seasons, his offensive capabilities grew substantially. The 1981-82 season saw him score 50 goals. His achievements led to his selection to the NHL First All-Star Team on the left wing the following season.

A defining moment in Messier’s career came in the 1984 playoffs when he transitioned to center. He played a pivotal role in leading the Oilers to a memorable comeback victory in the Stanley Cup finals, securing the first of many championships for both him and the team. This victory marked the beginning of an era of dominance for Messier and the Oilers, as they went on to win four more Stanley Cups in 1985, 1987, 1988, and 1990. His individual achievements also included winning the Hart Memorial Trophy as the league’s MVP.

Leading the New York Rangers to Glory

Messier’s leadership and skill led him to continued success with the New York Rangers. His impact on the team was immediate, winning his second Hart Memorial Trophy and leading the Rangers to the best record in the NHL during his first season in 1991. The team’s performance remained consistent, as they finished first overall again in the 1993-94 season, advancing to the Eastern Conference Finals. A memorable moment came when Messier famously declared that his team would win the series in six games. The Rangers ultimately prevailed in the seventh game, with a double-overtime victory. In the Stanley Cup Finals, Messier scored the winning goal in the seventh game, ending a 54-year Stanley Cup drought for the Rangers.

Messier remained a formidable force throughout his time with the Rangers, including an impressive 99-point season in 1995-96 and an 84-point season in his final year with the team in 1996-97.

Later Career with the Vancouver Canucks and Return to New York

In 1997, Messier returned to Canada, signing with the Vancouver Canucks. However, his time with the Canucks did not match the success he had enjoyed with the Oilers and Rangers. His first season saw him score 60 points, his lowest total since joining the NHL, and injuries limited his performance in subsequent seasons. Messier became a free agent after the 1999-2000 season.

Messier returned to the Rangers for the 2000-01 season, recording 67 points, before injury again plagued his performance. However, in 2003, Messier achieved a significant milestone, rising to second place on the all-time career point-scoring list with 1,851 points, trailing only Wayne Gretzky. He announced his retirement from the NHL in September 2005, ending a legendary career.

International Playing Achievements

Messier also represented Canada internationally, winning the silver medal at the World Ice Hockey Championships in 1989. His international resume includes three consecutive Canada Cups wins, demonstrating his consistent performance under pressure. He also secured a silver medal at the 1996 World Cup of Hockey, solidifying his reputation as a player of international calibre.

Career Earnings and Financial Success

Throughout his NHL career, Mark Messier earned over $68 million in salary. Furthermore, Messier capitalized on his fame with numerous endorsement deals, generating tens of millions in additional income. Post-retirement, Messier continues to earn millions annually as a TV analyst, with his latest television contract worth $3 million per year. These financial achievements reflect his sustained popularity and influence.

Post-Playing Career and Legacy

Following his retirement, Messier remained involved in hockey. He coached the Canadian national team in the Deutschland Cup and the Spengler Cup in 2010. He demonstrated his athletic versatility by running in the New York City Marathon in 2011. Messier transitioned into broadcasting, serving as a studio analyst on “NHL on Versus,” a guest commentator on “NHL on NBC,” and a spokesperson for Rogers Communications’ NHL coverage in Canada. In 2021, he signed a deal with ESPN/ABC to lead NHL studio coverage, continuing to share his hockey expertise with fans.

Personal Life and Family

Mark Messier is married to Kim, and the couple has three children: sons Lyon and Douglas, and daughter Jacqueline. Lyon followed in his father’s footsteps, playing hockey as a defenseman for various teams, including the South Carolina Stingrays and the Charlotte Checkers. Messier’s personal life also includes business ventures. He owns the Runaway Hill Club hotel on Harbour Island’s pink sand beach in the Bahamas, which is managed with the help of his brother Paul.

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