Avs defenseman Cale Makar signs richest deal in NHL history at $163.2 million over 8 years - AP News
Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar has signed an eight-year, $163.2 million contract extension, making him the highest-paid player in NHL history. The deal, which begins in the 2027-28 season, sets a new financial benchmark for elite NHL defensemen.
Why it matters
This record-breaking contract significantly shifts the salary landscape for the NHL and influences future negotiations for other star players.
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DENVER (AP) — Cale Makar and the Colorado Avalanche agreed to a $163.2 million, eight-year extension on Friday that will make him the highest paid player in league history.
The terms of the deal were confirmed by his agency, Bartlett Hockey.
Makar’s extension is set to be the the richest in NHL history, surpassing the eight-year, $136 million extension signed by Minnesota forward Kirill Kaprizov last September. Makar’s deal runs through the 2034-35 season.
With an annual average value (AAV) of $20.4 million beginning in 2027-28, Makar’s deal eclipses that of San Jose Sharks superstar Macklin Celebrini , who signed a five-year, $94 million extension in late July and has an $18.8 million AAV.
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