Canadiens forward Michael Pezzetta is engaging in a proud Montreal tradition — and no, it’s not winning the Stanley Cup: He’s talking about local tax rates.
The 26-year-old Toronto native was asked about the taxation rate on his salary during an appearance on the Cam and Strick Podcast last week.
“I know, it’s crazy,” said Pezzetta. “We’re, like, 54 per cent tax.”
Last summer, he signed a two-year, one-way contract with an annual salary-cap hit of US$812,500.
In the interview, Pezzetta recalled getting his first NHL paycheque. “You’re like, ‘Oh my God, where’s all the money?’”
At the time, the minimum salary set by the league’s collective bargaining agreement was $750,000.
“It was still a crazy paycheque compared to what I was getting in the minors, but it was not as crazy … not as big of a difference as I thought,” he clarified.
A former sixth-round pick, Pezzetta had three goals and six assists in 61 games for the Canadiens last season.