Makar makes history: Avs sign defenceman to NHL's largest-ever contract

Cale Makar and the Colorado Avalanche agreed to an eight-year contract extension worth $163.2 million US on Friday that will make him the highest paid player in league history.

His agency, Bartlett Hockey, confirmed terms of the deal.

Makar's extension is set to be 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 that begins in 2027-28, the Calgary native’s deal eclipses that of San Jose Sharks superstar Macklin Celebrini, who signed a five-year, $94 million extension in late July that has an $18.8 million AAV.

"I couldn't be more excited to continue my journey here with the Avalanche in this amazing city of Denver," Makar said in a video posted on social media by the team, calling it a historic day.

"Here's to another, hopefully amazing nine years."

Blue Jackets' Werenski beats out Makar for NHL top defenceman honours

The 27-year-old Makar is coming off a season in which he had 20 goals and 59 assists. He finished second to Zach Werenski of Columbus in the Norris Trophy voting, an award that goes to the league's top defenceman. Makar has won the award twice over his career.

The cap hit for Makar for last season was $9 million after signing a six-year, $54 million contract in 2021. The new deal for Makar now sets the bar for fellow standout defencemen Quinn Hughes of Minnesota and Werenski.

Securing the long-term services of Makar was a high priority this off-season for president of hockey operations/general manager Joe Sakic, who maintained that Makar was "going to finish his career" in Colorado. The team drafted Makar fourth