Avalanche Lock In Makar With Record $163.2 Million Extension

The Colorado Avalanche secured their star defenseman with a landmark agreement, announcing an eight-year contract extension with two-time Norris Trophy winner Cale Makar worth $163.2 million. The deal carries an average annual value of $20.4 million, establishing a new league high by a considerable margin. Makar’s extension begins following the current season.

The accord surpasses recent high-profile signings across the NHL, including San Jose Sharks prospect Macklin Celebrini’s five-year, $94 million extension signed this summer at $18.8 million annually starting in 2027-28. That contract itself had topped the offer sheet Philadelphia extended to Anaheim’s Leo Carlsson worth $18 million per season, which the Ducks matched.

Makar’s offensive production and defensive prowess justify the investment, with 507 points accumulated across 470 games while maintaining elite two-way play. The defenseman orchestrates Colorado’s top power-play unit and remains among the league’s most impactful puck-movers despite the team’s 20th-place ranking in power-play efficiency last season.

The hefty salary commitment places heightened expectations on the Avalanche, who captured one Stanley Cup with Makar’s contributions. Fans and management alike will anticipate sustained playoff success and additional championships given the substantial financial commitment to a single roster player.