Cale Makar Sets New NHK Pay Records

Hockey players are seeing substantial paychecks this summer. Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche has now become the highest-paid player in the NHL, setting a new benchmark.

Details of Makar’s Contract

The Colorado Avalanche confirmed their agreement on a contract extension with Makar, a two-time Norris Trophy-winning defenseman. This extension is considerable, amounting to $163.2 million over eight years. This translates to an average annual value (AAV) of $20.4 million, which surpasses previous records.

Starting in the 2027-28 season, this deal eclipses Macklin Celebrini’s contract with the Sharks. Celebrini secured a five-year, $94 million extension, with an AAV of $18.8 million, also starting in 2027-28.

Comparisons with Other Contracts

Makar’s contract also stands out against Leo Carlsson’s $18 million-per-season offer sheet from the Philadelphia Flyers. The Anaheim Ducks opted to match this offer for Carlsson.

Implications of High Salaries

As the NHL’s salary cap continues to rise, player salaries are expected to increase accordingly. However, allocating such a large portion of a team’s payroll to a single player raises questions.

In Makar’s case, the investment appears worthwhile. He is a rare talent as a puck-moving, play-making defenseman with solid defensive skills. Makar’s value is highlighted by his 507 points, consisting of 136 goals and 371 assists in 470 games.

Future Expectations

The pressure on Makar is substantial. Having already helped the Avalanche win one Stanley Cup, there are expectations for the team to remain competitive and aim for further championships.

Makar plays a crucial role as the quarterback of the Avalanche’s top power-play unit. Despite the team ranking only 20th in the league in power-play percentage last season, few players are as capable in this position as Makar.

Matthew Reigle, writer for OutKick, provides these insights.