ESPN REPORT: Zach Hyman, the Left Wing (LW) for the Edmonton Oilers, has stunned the sports world with a selfless deed that goes beyond hockey. Zach Hyman was brave and kind when he decided to donate his full $2 million signing bonus to fight homelessness in the US after agreeing to an NHL deal. The action was praised as one of the kindest things a professional athlete has ever done, and….. view more

In a move that has left both the hockey community and the broader public in awe, Edmonton Oilers left winger Zach Hyman has pledged his entire $2 million signing bonus from his new NHL deal to combat homelessness in the United States.

The 33-year-old forward, known for his grit on the ice and thoughtful nature off it, quietly made the donation just days after finalizing a contract extension with the Oilers. According to sources close to the player, Hyman directed the funds toward a network of nonprofits focused on transitional housing, mental health support, and job readiness programs for people experiencing chronic homelessness.

“This isn’t about headlines or making a statement,” Hyman said in a brief comment shared through his publicist. “It’s about using a moment of personal gain to give back to people who need a chance to get back on their feet.”

Though he declined interviews, the impact of his gesture is already being felt. Organizations in Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, and Detroit confirmed they had received surprise donations from a donor listed only as “ZH25,” believed to be a reference to Hyman’s initials and jersey number.

ESPN has learned that among the recipients is HomeFront United, a Detroit-based shelter and job training center that serves over 500 individuals monthly. Executive Director Carla Monroe described the moment she learned of the gift:

“We thought it was a mistake. Two million dollars? From a hockey player in Canada? But then we confirmed it. I broke down in tears,” Monroe said. “This money will literally save lives.”

Hyman, a native of Toronto and a published children’s author, has long championed community service and youth programs. However, this act of generosity represents a significant escalation in his philanthropic efforts — and it’s resonating far beyond the rink.

An Outpouring of Praise

Teammates, coaches, and fans have flooded social media with support and admiration for Hyman’s decision.

“Zach is the kind of person you want your kids to look up to,” said Oilers captain Connor McDavid. “He puts others first, whether it’s on the ice or in the community. This is just who he is.”

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman also released a statement, calling the act “one of the most meaningful charitable gestures ever made by an NHL player.”

A Legacy Beyond Hockey

While many athletes give generously, donating an entire signing bonus is virtually unheard of. Analysts suggest Hyman’s move could mark a turning point in how professional athletes view their financial impact and public platform.

“We talk about legacy in sports all the time,” said ESPN’s Barry Melrose. “What Hyman did goes beyond championships or goals. He’s setting a new standard for what leadership looks like.”

As the Oilers gear up for the 2025–26 season with their eyes on the Stanley Cup, fans know that they’ve already won something just as valuable — a reminder that true greatness isn’t only measured by stats, but by the size of one’s heart.