Cale Makar signs historic contract with Colorado Avalanche
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 29, 2026, 2:12 AM
Last updated Aug 29, 2026

Cale Makar signed the largest contract in NHL history today, a $163.2 million deal with the Colorado Avalanche spanning eight years, beginning in 2027. Makar's contract sets a new precedent as he becomes the first player to earn an annual salary exceeding $20 million, representing 19.61% of the NHL salary cap. This deal could influence other players looking for substantial pay raises, including Quinn Hughes and Jason Robertson, as the league's salary cap is projected to rise further. Significant changes in contract dynamics for high-end talent could follow as more players seek such lucrative deals.
- •Makar's contract begins in 2027 and totals $163.2 million.
- •He is now the first player to have a $20 million annual salary.
- •The deal accounts for 19.61% of the current salary cap.
- •Players like Quinn Hughes and Jason Robertson could be influenced by Makar's contract.
- 2:12 AMYahoo Sports — How Cale Makar’s historic contract affects the future of the NHL
"The largest NHL contract in league history was signed by Cale Makar today. He’ll be earning $163.2 million over the next 8 years, starting in 2027.Makar also becomes the first player in league history to be making an annual salary of over $20 million.At 19.61% of the cap, it’s the largest individual contract since Brad […] The post How Cale Makar’s historic contract affects the future of the NHL appeared first on HEAVY.
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