Ryan Whitney Net Worth

What is Ryan Whitney's net worth and Salary?

Ryan Whitney is a former American professional hockey player, podcaster, and media personality who has a net worth of $12 million. Ryan Whitney is best known for his time as an NHL defenseman and as a co-host of the hit hockey podcast "Spittin' Chiclets." During his playing career, Whitney skated for teams including the Pittsburgh Penguins, Edmonton Oilers, Anaheim Ducks, and Florida Panthers, earning a reputation for his offensive instincts and puck-moving ability. A first-round draft pick who once represented Team USA at the Olympics, Whitney transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting after injuries cut short his career, becoming one of hockey's most popular and outspoken media figures. His humor, candor, and insight have helped turn "Spittin' Chiclets" into one of the most influential sports podcasts in North America.

Early Life

Ryan Whitney was born on February 19, 1983, in Scituate, Massachusetts. He began skating at a young age and quickly stood out for his size and playmaking skill on defense. Whitney attended Thayer Academy, a prep school known for producing elite hockey talent, before joining the U.S. National Team Development Program in Michigan, where he competed against some of the best young players in the world.

Whitney then played college hockey at Boston University, where he spent three seasons from 2001 to 2004. His strong performance at BU, combined with his physical tools and offensive vision, made him a top prospect for the NHL. In the 2002 NHL Entry Draft, the Pittsburgh Penguins selected him fifth overall, making him one of the highest-drafted defensemen of his class.

NHL Career

After spending time developing in the AHL with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, Whitney made his NHL debut with Pittsburgh during the 2005–06 season. By his second full season, he had become one of the team's top defensemen, recording an impressive 59 points in 2006–07, ranking among the league's highest-scoring blueliners. His smooth skating and offensive instincts made him a key contributor to Pittsburgh's rise as a Stanley Cup contender.

In 2008, Whitney underwent foot surgery, which sidelined him for several months and ultimately affected his long-term mobility. The Penguins traded him to the Anaheim Ducks in 2009 in exchange for Chris Kunitz, a move that would later prove pivotal for Pittsburgh's eventual Stanley Cup win. Whitney played parts of two seasons in Anaheim before being traded to the Edmonton Oilers in 2010.

With Edmonton, Whitney initially looked like a key piece of the team's rebuilding effort, posting strong numbers before chronic ankle problems began to derail his career. He later had brief stints with the Florida Panthers and in the KHL with HC Sochi before announcing his retirement in 2015. Over 10 NHL seasons, Whitney played 481 regular-season games, scoring 50 goals and 209 assists for 259 points.

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Contracts, Salaries & Career Earnings

As a first-round draft pick, Ryan Whitney signed a series of lucrative contracts over his NHL career. His first major deal came in 2007 when he agreed to a six-year, $24 million contract extension with the Pittsburgh Penguins, reflecting his status as one of the team's cornerstone defensemen at the time. The deal carried an average annual value of $4 million and represented a significant commitment from the franchise.

Following trades to Anaheim and then Edmonton, Whitney's injuries prevented him from securing another long-term extension, but he continued to earn solid salaries throughout the remainder of his career. By the time he retired, Whitney's total NHL career earnings were estimated at roughly $27 million, including salary, signing bonuses, and playoff incentives.

Post-Hockey Career and "Spittin' Chiclets"

After retiring, Whitney shifted his focus to media and business. In 2016, he joined Barstool Sports to co-host "Spittin' Chiclets" alongside former NHL player Paul Bissonnette and host Brian "Rear Admiral" McGonagle. The podcast quickly became a phenomenon within the hockey world, blending insider stories, locker-room humor, and unfiltered opinions. Whitney's Boston charm and self-deprecating wit made him a fan favorite, while his on-ice experience lent credibility to the show's analysis of the sport.

"Spittin' Chiclets" grew into a multimedia brand, spawning a successful line of Pink Whitney vodka, created in collaboration with New Amsterdam Spirits. The drink, named after Whitney's signature cocktail order, became one of the top-selling flavored vodkas in North America and significantly boosted his post-playing fortune.

Personal Life

Ryan Whitney is married and has two sons. He remains deeply involved in the hockey community, participating in charity events, alumni games, and youth coaching. Known for his straightforward personality and comedic timing, Whitney continues to serve as a bridge between traditional hockey culture and a new generation of fans.

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