Makar becomes NHL's highest-paid player ever
Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar has signed an eight-year, $163.2 million contract extension, making him the highest-paid player in NHL history. He says the added pressure will only push him to work harder.
Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar has become the highest-paid player in National Hockey League (NHL) history after signing an eight-year contract extension worth $163.2 million. The deal takes effect next season, giving the 27-year-old defenseman an average annual salary of $20.4 million.
Makar acknowledged that the record-breaking deal brings extra pressure, but said he sees it as motivation to push himself further. He also predicted his record won't stand for long, suggesting Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid or Toronto Maple Leafs star Auston Matthews could eventually surpass it, with teammate Nathan MacKinnon possibly following later.
Salary cap impact
Starting with the 2027-28 season, Makar's $20.4 million salary will account for roughly 18% of the projected salary cap. MacKinnon's contract carries a cap hit of $12.6 million, while Martin Necas's is $11.5 million, underscoring the strength — and cost — of Colorado's core roster.
On-ice success
Last season, Makar scored 20 goals and added 59 assists in 80 regular-season games. In 2022, he helped the Avalanche win the Stanley Cup and earned the Conn Smythe Trophy after recording eight goals and 21 assists in 20 playoff games.
Avalanche general manager Joe Sakic said a full no-movement clause in the contract was a natural choice, given that Makar has earned the right to decide where he spends his entire career. Makar himself said the eight-year deal gives him clarity about the team's future direction, adding that after winning once, he wants to experience that feeling again.
