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Cale Makar Embraces the Pressure of Extension with Avs that Makes Him League’s Highest Paid Player

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.
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23 Articles

The Star DemocratThe Star Democrat
+8 Reposted by 8 other sources
Center

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…

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Lean Left

With $20 million contracts expected to become more frequent, the Avalanche should find its own account by offering Makar close to the maximum salary.

·Montreal, Canada
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Center

Cale Makari's mammoth contract is shaking up the NHL market, writes hockey journalist Sami Hoffrén.

·Helsinki, Finland
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9NEWS Denver broke the news in Denver, United States on Monday, August 31, 2026.
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