Cale Makar Becomes NHL's Highest Paid Player with $163.2 Million Extension

Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche has officially become the highest paid player in NHL history after signing an eight-year contract extension valued at $163.2 million. This deal, which begins next season, brings significant expectations for the two-time Norris Trophy winner.

Makar, who is 27 years old, expressed his readiness to handle the pressure associated with his new status. He noted that he consistently pushes himself to perform at a high level and anticipates that his record salary may soon be surpassed by other players eligible for extensions, such as Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews.

The Avalanche are positioned for success with Makar and teammate Nathan MacKinnon, both key players in their championship aspirations. Makar's salary will account for approximately 18 percent of the projected salary cap in the 2027-28 season. Joe Sakic, the team's executive, emphasized the importance of having superstar players like Makar and MacKinnon to achieve success, especially after Makar's absence due to injury impacted the team's performance in the playoffs.