Last month, we covered how Canada taxes professional athletes; now in Part 2, we look at the U.S. system. Governed by the IRS, U.S. taxation combines federal tax, with state-level taxes, meaning NHL players are taxed in multiple states, based on where they play. With wide differences in state tax rates and added complexity around residency and contract structuring, proactive planning is critical to maximizing after-tax income. Click below to read more.

This month’s player spotlight features Brett Kulak, the veteran defenseman from Stony Plain, Alberta. Drafted by the Calgary Flames, Brett began his NHL career in Calgary before being traded to the Montreal Canadiens, where he played four seasons and was part of the team’s run to the Stanley Cup Final 2021. In 2022, Brett was acquired by the Edmonton Oilers, contributing to multiple playoff appearances during his time there. Most recently, Brett was traded to the Colorado Avalanche, adding another chapter to a career that has seen him play key roles across several competitive teams. Click the link below to learn more about Brett’s impact on his new team.

How Much Do Players Get Paid in the Stanley Cup Playoffs - When a hockey player wins the Stanley Cup and gets to hoist the greatest trophy in all of sports, their mind is flooded with so many thoughts. Memories of skating on frozen ponds when they were kids. Dreams they had to win it all when they were growing up. The countless number of times [...]

How AI is impacting the way NHL teams do business - NHL general managers meet multiple times a year to discuss league matters and best practices. Coaches and equipment managers gather annually. Representatives from hockey analytics groups across the NHL met in an official capacity for the first time ever in late March [...]

Tax Payments and Refunds: What Canada/U.S. Taxpayers Need to Know - For many taxpayers, filing the annual tax return is only half the job. The other half is making sure money moves properly. That means paying the correct tax authority, using the appropriate method, applying [...]

U.S. Taxation of Your Canadian Rental Property - Canadians moving to the United States often face an important decision when it comes to their home: sell it, keep it for personal use, or convert it into a rental property. Each option carries financial and tax implications that can [...]

28.1 Player Fund: NHL Playoffs and Club Finish - The following single lump sum payment below shall be made by the NHL to the Players on account of a Player fund (“Player Fund”), which shall be allocated to the Players on Clubs participating in the various Playoff rounds and/or based upon Club finish, as shall be determined by the NHLPA, subject to approval by the League. The amount described below shall not be considered “Benefits” or otherwise counted against Players’ Share; nor will they be deductible from HRR as a Direct Cost. For the 2025-26 League Year, the amount shall be $24,000,000. Note that, 2026-27 player fund will increase to $34,000,000.

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I hope you have enjoyed another edition of the Monthly Chalk Talk! 

Sincerely,  

Cardinal Point Athlete Advisors

Cardinal Point Athlete Advisors are not registered investment advisors or registered portfolio managers. To the extent you require any portfolio or investment management services, such services may be provided by our affiliate, Cardinal Point Capital Management, ULC, a U.S. registered investment advisor and a registered portfolio manager in Canada (ON, QC, MB, SK, NS, NB, AB, BC, PEI).