What’s at stake for the Avalanche?
The defenseman’s current six‑year, $54 million contract – a $9 million AAV – is already viewed as a bargain. As the league’s cap climbs, Colorado faces a rare decision: lock Makar into a historic payday or preserve flexibility for future moves. The club’s front office knows that overpaying could cripple depth, yet underpaying risks losing a two‑time Norris Trophy winner.
How do recent blockbuster deals shape Makar’s market?
Last September, the Minnesota Wild handed Kirill Kaprizov an eight‑year, $17 million AAV, briefly the NHL’s highest salary. A month later, Colorado secured Martin Necas for $11.5 million AAV. Those contracts widened the pay scale dramatically. In the 2025‑26 season, Kaprizov posted 89 points, while Necas hit a career‑high 100 points. If the league judged value solely on that season, Colorado would appear to have gotten the better deal. Makar’s extension, however, can’t be judged in isolation; timing, team needs and negotiating leverage all matter.
Why does Makar deserve a top‑tier contract?
Makar’s impact goes beyond raw numbers. He drives offense from the blue line, controls puck possession, and elevates teammates in every shift. His role was pivotal in Colorado’s recent Stanley Cup run, and his defensive reliability anchors the team’s identity. The two‑time Norris winner has consistently posted high‑plus‑minus figures and logs heavy minutes against elite competition, reinforcing his status as one of the league’s premier blueliners.
What could the final deal look like?
Analysts suggest a range between $12 million and $14 million AAV, aligning Makar with the top tier of defensemen while leaving room for supporting contracts. The Avalanche must also consider the ripple effect on the roster – a $13 million deal would consume roughly 15 % of the cap, limiting flexibility for forward depth and goaltending upgrades. The front office is reportedly weighing a longer term, perhaps eight‑year, structure to spread cap hits and lock Makar through his prime.
How will this affect Colorado’s championship window?
If Colorado lands a deal that reflects Makar’s elite status without over‑committing, the team can stay competitive for several seasons. A balanced contract would allow the club to add secondary scoring and maintain a solid defensive corps. Conversely, an inflated figure could force the Avalanche to offload assets, potentially shortening the current window.
What’s the timeline for a decision?
Negotiations are expected to conclude before the start of free‑agency season in early July. Both sides understand that a prolonged stalemate could distract the squad during training camp. The Avalanche aim to announce the extension by mid‑July, giving fans and the league a clear picture of Colorado’s financial roadmap.
Bottom line: Cale Makar’s upcoming extension will set a new standard for defensemen contracts. Colorado’s ability to strike a fair deal will dictate not only Makar’s earnings but also the franchise’s flexibility to chase another championship.