Cale Makar has reached a groundbreaking agreement with the Colorado Avalanche for an eight-year contract extension valued at $163.2 million USD, establishing him as the highest-paid player in NHL history. The contract details were confirmed by his agency, Bartlett Hockey. This deal surpasses the previous record set by Minnesota’s Kirill Kaprizov with an eight-year, $136 million extension signed in September last year. Makar’s extension will run through the 2034-35 season, setting a new standard in the NHL.
With an annual average value of $20.4 million starting in the 2027-28 season, Makar’s contract outshines that of San Jose Sharks’ star Macklin Celebrini, who recently signed a five-year, $94 million extension with an $18.8 million AAV. This historic agreement for Makar may further impact the salary threshold with upcoming extensions for other top players like Edmonton’s Connor McDavid and Toronto’s Auston Matthews in the following year.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Makar stated in a social media video shared by the team that he is thrilled to continue his journey with the Avalanche in Denver, considering it a momentous day. The 27-year-old defenseman concluded a remarkable season with 20 goals and 59 assists, securing a second-place finish in the Norris Trophy voting behind Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets. Makar has previously won the Norris Trophy twice in his career.
Makar’s cap hit for the last season stood at $9 million under a six-year, $54 million contract signed in 2021. This new deal not only elevates Makar’s position but also establishes a benchmark for notable defensemen like Quinn Hughes of Minnesota and Werenski. The Avalanche’s president of hockey operations/general manager Joe Sakic emphasized the importance of securing Makar’s long-term commitment, affirming that Makar would remain with the team for his entire career. Makar was drafted fourth overall in 2017 from the University of Massachusetts.
As Makar prepares for the next phase of his career, it is projected that the salary cap will be $113.5 million in 2027-28 when his new contract takes effect. His substantial contract will account for about 18% of the team’s cap space, considering the Avalanche’s championship aspirations. The team is also gearing up for the upcoming season, with Makar expected to be fully fit for training camp following an injury during the Western Conference final against the Vegas Golden Knights.
Amidst organizational changes, Sakic has been proactive in managing the team’s roster, including strategic moves to create space for Makar’s extension. The core trio of Makar, Nathan MacKinnon, and captain Gabriel Landeskog played a pivotal role in the Avalanche’s Stanley Cup victory in 2022, with Makar earning the Conn Smythe Trophy as the playoffs MVP. Makar’s commitment to the team is reinforced by his brother Taylor’s recent signing with the Avalanche, marking a significant milestone as the siblings became the first duo to play together for the team.
Reflecting on his bond with Colorado, Makar expressed gratitude and anticipation for the upcoming season, aiming to contribute to the team’s pursuit of another Stanley Cup triumph.