What happened: Cale Makar’s new Colorado Avalanche contract runs through the 2034-35 season. Its $163.2 million value makes him the NHL’s highest-paid player.

Why it matters: Colorado secured its cornerstone defenseman for his prime years while establishing a new benchmark for elite contracts. The increased cap charge begins after his current deal expires, preserving the Avalanche’s existing structure for the upcoming 2026-27 season.

What to watch: Colorado must account for the new cap charge beginning in 2027-28. The deal’s effect on future roster construction will become clearer as subsequent contracts are negotiated.