What happened: The move follows a private request lodged several months ago, with training camp approaching and offers under review. Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reported Thursday that Colorado is closing in on an extension with Cale Makar, who is entering the final year of a six-year, $54 million contract.
Why it matters: The 2025 Hart winner and three-time Vezina winner would be a major offseason trade asset. A Makar extension would keep a two-time Norris Trophy winner in Colorado beyond 2026-27.
By the numbers: Hellebuyck went 23-23-11 with a 2.86 goals-against average and .895 save percentage in 2025-26; his 345 wins since 2015-16 rank second in the NHL, while his 45 shutouts rank first. Makar scored 20 goals and 79 points in 75 games as Colorado won the Presidents’ Trophy.
What to watch: Watch whether trade talks advance before training camp and whether Colorado completes Makar’s extension before his current deal expires.