The Colorado Avalanche have solidified their future by signing superstar defenseman Cale Makar to an eight-year contract extension worth $163.2 million. This deal, which comes with an annual average value of $20.4 million, makes Makar the first player in NHL history to surpass the $20 million AAV threshold.
The timing of this contract is particularly crucial, as it aligns with the NHL's new collective bargaining agreement, which sets a deadline of September 15, 2026, for players to sign eight-year extensions. Although Makar will not become an unrestricted free agent until then, this date marked a pivotal moment for him and the Avalanche, as it dictated the length of his potential contract.
Makar's decision to opt for the maximum eight-year term contrasts with other young stars in the league, such as Connor Bedard and Leo Carlsson, who have chosen shorter contracts. Notably, Connor McDavid also signed a two-year extension last summer, while Quinn Hughes is expected to follow suit with a shorter deal. However, Makar expressed a strong desire to commit to the Avalanche for the long haul, stating, "For me, the main thing, never really wavered off the term."
His record-breaking extension will not take effect until the 2027-28 season, coinciding with an anticipated salary cap increase of nearly $10 million. Makar's cap hit of $20.4 million is just shy of the maximum allowable 20% of the cap, demonstrating the Avalanche's commitment to retaining their star player while maintaining flexibility for future roster moves.
Beyond securing his financial future, Makar's choice to sign for the maximum term reflects his dedication to the Avalanche organization. He emphasized the importance of providing stability for the team as they continue to build around their core players. Makar noted, "I felt like for me, it was kind of that trade-off of wanting to give the team stability over the entire contract and being able to build around that." This decision not only showcases his loyalty but also his understanding of the team's long-term goals.
The Avalanche have been strategically constructing their roster with Makar's extension in mind, signing several players to new contracts in the past 14 months, including Brock Nelson and Parker Kelly. Most of these players will remain with the team through at least the first season of Makar's new deal, allowing the Avalanche to maintain a competitive core.
At just 27 years old, Makar enters the 2026-27 season with an impressive resume, including a Stanley Cup championship, a Conn Smythe Trophy, and two Norris Trophies. His performance has established him as one of the premier defensemen of his generation, and he continues to solidify his legacy with each passing season. Avalanche president of hockey operations and general manager Joe Sakic remarked on the straightforward nature of the negotiations, stating, "There wasn’t one conversation on term; both sides wanted the eight years." This mutual desire for a long-term commitment underscores the synergy between Makar and the Avalanche as they look to achieve continued success in the NHL.
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