Overview
- Joe Sakic told reporters Thursday that “Cale’s going to finish his career here,” and said the Avalanche have spoken with Makar’s agent and expect to sign an extension this summer.
- Makar will become eligible to sign a new extension on July 1 and is entering the final year of a six-year deal that carries a $9 million salary-cap hit.
- The 27-year-old produced 20 goals and 59 assists for 79 points in 75 regular-season games but was banged up in the playoffs and missed games late in the Western Conference Final.
- Chris MacFarland’s exit and Sakic’s return to the general manager role concentrate contract decisions with Sakic and make Makar the Avalanche’s top offseason priority.
- A new deal for Makar could push defenseman salaries higher given cap projections, though comparisons to other megadeals are speculative and Makar’s recent injuries and cap math are likely to shape timing and value.