Colorado Avalanche sign defenseman Cale Makar to record-setting eight-year contract extension

The Colorado Avalanche have signed defenseman Cale Makar to an eight-year, $163.2 million contract extension, making him the highest-paid player in NHL history with an average annual value of $20.4 million. This deal surpasses previous record-setting contracts for Macklin Celebrini and Leo Carlsson. Makar’s exceptional performance, including 507 points in 470 games and his role on the power play, justifies the significant investment, though it intensifies expectations for the Avalanche to become perennial contenders and win another Stanley Cup.

• Cale Makar has signed a record-setting eight-year, $163.2 million contract extension with the Colorado Avalanche.
• His new contract has an average annual value (AAV) of $20.4 million, making him the highest-paid player in the NHL.
• This deal surpasses the contracts of Macklin Celebrini ($18.8 million AAV) and Leo Carlsson ($18 million AAV).
• Makar has recorded 507 points (136 goals, 371 assists) in 470 career games.
• He quarterbacks the Avalanche’s top power-play unit.
• The significant salary increase brings heightened pressure on Makar and the Avalanche to consistently contend for and win another Stanley Cup.