Avs defenseman Cale Makar signs richest deal in NHL history
Cale Makar’s $163.2 million extension intensifies Columbus’ cap concerns as Zach Werenski enters the second-last year of his deal.
- Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar signed an eight-year, $163.2 million contract extension last week, cementing his status as the league's highest-paid player.
- Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski is entering the second-last year of his current six-year deal, creating contract uncertainty for the franchise.
- News of the record-breaking deal delivered a "gut punch" to the Columbus front office, as the market benchmark suggests Werenski's next contract could approach $20 million annually.
- Projections show Columbus has roughly $65 million in cap space for the 2028-29 season, but a $20 million salary for Werenski would consume nearly one-third of that room.
- A trade involving Werenski could eventually become the necessary solution for the Blue Jackets to manage their financial future amid mounting cap constraints and roster obligations.
14 Articles
14 Articles
Durango Herald
Washington TimesCale Makar embraces the pressure of extension with Avs that makes him league’s highest paid player
FILE – Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar, center, celebrates his goal with teammates during the first period of an NHL hockey game against the Anaheim Ducks, March 3, 2026, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull, File)(AP Photo/Gregory Bull, File) ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) — The title is still sinking in for Cale Makar — highest paid […]
The Star Democrat
Cale Makar embraces the pressure of extension with Avs that makes him league's highest paid player
Defenseman Cale Makar is now the highest-paid player in NHL history after signing a $163.2 million, eight-year extension with the Colorado Avalanche. The two-time Norris Trophy winner embraces the pressure that comes with the deal. Makar is the first NHL…
Blue Jackets May Have Zach Werenski Problem After Makar Deal
The Columbus Blue Jackets could have a bit of a pickle on their hands with Zach Werenski, now that Cale Makar has reset the bar. The post Blue Jackets May Have Zach Werenski Problem After Makar Deal appeared first on HEAVY.
With $20 million contracts expected to become more frequent, the Avalanche should find its own account by offering Makar close to the maximum salary.
Cale Makari's mammoth contract is shaking up the NHL market, writes hockey journalist Sami Hoffrén.
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