The Colorado Avalanche have signed defenseman Cale Makar to an eight-year contract worth $163.2 million, according to CBS Sports. The deal carries an average annual value of $20.4 million, making it the largest contract in NHL history.
CBS Sports reported the signing on Friday, August 28, 2026. The Avalanche locked in their star blueliner through the 2033-34 season, with the contract surpassing all previous NHL deals in total value. NHL.com also confirmed the figures, noting the $20.4 million annual cap hit.
Makar, 27, has been the cornerstone of Colorado’s defense since entering the league. He won the Norris Trophy as the NHL’s top defenseman in 2022 and helped the Avalanche capture the Stanley Cup that same year. The new deal reflects his status as one of the league’s premier players, according to CBC and CTV News.
