Cale Makar and the Colorado Avalanche have reached a significant agreement on an eight-year contract extension valued at $163.2 million US, setting a new record as the highest-paid player in NHL history. The deal, confirmed by his agency Bartlett Hockey, surpasses the previous record held by Minnesota’s Kirill Kaprizov. Makar’s extension, running through the 2034-35 season, features an annual average value of $20.4 million starting in 2027-28, surpassing the contract of San Jose Sharks’ Macklin Celebrini.
The historic contract for Makar may impact future negotiations for star players like Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews. Makar expressed his excitement about continuing with the Avalanche, stating it is a momentous day and looking forward to the next nine years.
Coming off a season with impressive statistics, including finishing second in Norris Trophy voting, Makar’s new deal sets a benchmark for other outstanding defensemen like Quinn Hughes and Zach Werenski. The Avalanche prioritized securing Makar’s long-term commitment, with President of Hockey Operations/General Manager Joe Sakic emphasizing Makar’s integral role in the team.
Despite a recent injury during the Western Conference final, Makar is expected to be ready for the upcoming season. Sakic, who resumed his role as general manager, orchestrated strategic moves to accommodate Makar’s extension, including trading Valeri Nichushkin to the Blue Jackets for draft picks.
Recognized as a generational talent, Makar’s achievements include multiple 20-goal seasons and reaching his 500th NHL point in record time among defensemen. His pivotal role alongside Nathan MacKinnon and Gabriel Landeskog led the Avalanche to a Stanley Cup victory in 2022, where Makar was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as the playoffs’ MVP.
In a heartwarming note, Makar expressed gratitude towards Colorado, referring to it as a second home, and emphasized his commitment to pursuing the Stanley Cup with his teammates in the years to come.