Cale Makar’s next deal entered the spotlight on 7 July 2026, when the Philadelphia Flyers announced a five‑year, $90 million extension for rookie Leo Carlsson, instantly sparking speculation about the Avalanche defenseman’s own contract trajectory.
How does Carlsson’s deal affect Makar?
The Flyers’ move reset the market for elite young talent, but it does not directly dictate Makar’s numbers. The Avalanche star is in the final year of a six‑year, $54 million contract that carries a $9 million AAV. He became eligible for an extension on 1 July 2026, yet both sides have signaled no rush. The real pressure comes from the upcoming collective bargaining agreement, set to take effect on 16 Sept 2026, which will trim the maximum length of re‑signings from eight to seven years.
What are the salary scenarios for Makar?
Analysts now project a range rather than a single figure. Pierre LeBrun floated the possibility of Makar breaking the $20 million barrier, making him the league’s first defenseman at that level. More conservative estimates cluster between $15 million and $16.5 million AAV, with $17 million seen as an upper realistic ceiling. The exact number will hinge on contract length, structure and how the new CBA rules shape long‑term deals.
Why the timing matters now?
With the CBA deadline looming, Colorado has a narrow window to lock in a longer‑term contract before the seven‑year cap on extensions kicks in. Signing before 16 Sept 2026 would allow a seven‑year deal; waiting until after could force a shorter term, potentially lowering the total value. Avalanche GM Joe Sakic has repeatedly expressed confidence that Makar will stay in Denver, so the conversation is less about loyalty and more about aligning the contract with the evolving salary cap landscape.
How does this compare to other franchise stars?
The situation mirrors past choices by elite players who prioritized stability over pure cash. Sidney Crosby, for example, carried an $8.7 million cap hit for years while guiding Pittsburgh to three Cups. In the same vein, Makar could opt for a structure that gives Colorado flexibility, preserving a roster capable of contending for more championships. The Carlsson deal, while eye‑catching, simply underscores that the market ceiling is rising, not that Makar’s deal is imminent.
What’s next for the Avalanche and Makar?
The next steps involve detailed negotiations between Makar’s representation and Colorado’s front office, likely occurring in the summer months leading up to the CBA change. Expect discussions around performance bonuses, no‑trade clauses and the exact length that satisfies both the player’s desire for security and the club’s cap strategy. As the deadline approaches, the league will watch closely to see whether Makar sets a new benchmark for defensemen salaries or opts for a more measured agreement.
Bottom line
Carlsson’s $90 million extension has amplified the conversation around Makar’s contract, but the core factors remain his elite performance, the impending CBA changes and the Avalanche’s long‑term plans. Whether he becomes the first $20 million defenseman or signs a $16‑million pact, the deal will shape the market for top‑tier blueliners across the NHL.