Report: Avalanche, Cale Makar Closing In On Massive Contract Extension
Colorado Avalanche president Joe Sakic knew what his number one priority was this offseason, and from the sounds of multiple reports, Sakic's got the job done, as the team is closing in on a eight-year contract extension with star defenceman Cale Makar.
About to go off-line for a bit, but the much-anticipated extension for Cale Makar and Colorado is closing in
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) August 27, 2026
Going to be a biggie…but a critical piece of business for the Avalanche
Makar, 27, is set to earn $9 million AAV in the final year of his current contract, and is a pending unrestricted free-agent next summer. There was zero chance Sakic and the Avs were going to let Makar hit the open market, as the bidding would have been out of control, and it's great for the franchise to see this deal getting done.
Makar's one of the best players in the game, and a huge part of the Avalanche's success heading into next season, and beyond. Makar posted 79 points in 75 games last season, playing close to 25 minutes a game. His 507 points in 470 games is as impressive as any major feat since he's joined the league in 2019.
Don't be surprised to see Makar making more than Leo Carlsson's $18 million cap hit, as Makar's expected to set the next bench mark for elite players to earn, heading into the ever-growing salary cap.