What happened: The agreement begins after the final season of his six-year, $54 million contract and runs through 2034-35. Cale Makar's annual cap hit will rise from $9 million to $20.4 million.
Why it matters: Makar moves the league benchmark $1.6 million above Macklin Celebrini's $18.8 million AAV. His cap hit is also 63.2% higher than Bowen Byram's previous $12.5 million high for a defenseman.
By the numbers: Makar's AAV rises 126.7% under the extension. He has 507 points in 470 regular-season games and 90 points in 90 playoff games.
What to watch: Colorado must now build its 2027-28 roster around a $20.4 million cap charge.