PWHL players' salary release affirms vast disparity between top men's, women's stars

Marie-Philip Poulin's trophy case now includes a Walter Cup championship and Ilana Kloss Playoff MVP award.

Arguably the best female hockey player in the world, they'll be added to Poulin's resumé, which is already full of accomplishments.

But being the best player in professional women's hockey still pays less than one-seventh of the NHL's minimum salary of $775,000 US, a sign of the vast disparity that remains between the best male and female athletes.

Poulin's salary was $110,216 during the 2025-26 season, according to salary figures released by the PWHL Players Association on Tuesday. All PWHL salary amounts are in US dollars and don't factor in any bonuses that players may receive.

The disclosure comes after players voted to release the information to the public. You can find a searchable database of player salaries below.

"This decision reflects our belief that greater salary transparency gives players clearer information and stronger context in individual negotiations, while also supporting a more transparent and credible marketplace for the league overall," PWHLPA executive director Malaika Underwood said on Tuesday.

"Given that players had previously approved disclosure among players and agents, and that minimum and average salary figures are already public in the [collective bargaining agreement], this is a natural next step."

Poulin was the fifth-highest paid player in the league last season, behind Ottawa's Emily Clark ($126,090), New York's Sarah Fillier ($125,000), Ottawa's Brianne Jenner ($122,003) and Poulin's Montreal teammate, Abby Roque ($116,699).

There's a wide gulf between the top-paid players and a big chunk of the league. Ninety-seven players made less than $50,000 last season.

That includes 17