Avalanche Lock Up Makar with Historic $20.4M AAV Deal

The Colorado Avalanche have signed defenseman Cale Makar to an eight-year, $163.2 million extension, making him the NHL's highest-paid player with a $20.4 million average annual value. The deal surpasses the previous record held by Macklin Celebrini and keeps Makar in Denver through the 2034-35 season. Makar, a two-time Norris Trophy winner, recorded 79 points in 75 games last season.

EXPANDED:

Makar arrived in Colorado as the fourth overall pick in 2017 and quickly became the backbone of the franchise, helping deliver the 2022 Stanley Cup. His previous six-year deal carried a $9 million average annual value, which ranked just 12th among NHL defensemen last season, making this raise a dramatic acknowledgment of his elite production.

The Avalanche have built a formidable core around Makar and Nathan MacKinnon, with Devon Toews also secured through 2030-31. Makar's skating speed places him in the 99th percentile among defenders, and his presence drives offensive zone time well above league averages. His playoff absence due to injury last season underscored how crucial