A Dynasty in the Making: Makar's Future with the Avalanche
Avalanche's Firm Stance on Cale Makar's Future
The leadership of the Colorado Avalanche organization has made it unequivocally clear that they intend for their standout defenseman, Cale Makar, to conclude his illustrious career as an Avalanche player. Joe Sakic, the President of Hockey Operations and General Manager, recently reiterated the team's dedication to this goal.
Contract Extension Discussions Underway
Makar, currently 27 years old, is poised to become eligible for a contract extension starting July 1st. His existing six-year deal, valued at $54 million, is set to expire after the 2026-27 season. Sakic confirmed that negotiations are already in progress with Makar's agent, expressing optimism that a new agreement will be reached in due course. Makar has been a key figure for the Avalanche since they drafted him fourth overall in the 2017 NHL Draft, having played his entire professional career with the franchise.
Makar's Stellar Performance and Accolades
As a two-time recipient of the Norris Trophy, recognizing him as the NHL's premier defenseman, Makar had another phenomenal season. He accumulated an impressive 79 points, consisting of 20 goals and 59 assists, along with a commendable plus-32 rating in 75 games. While he was a finalist for the trophy for the sixth consecutive year, he narrowly missed out to Zach Werenski this season. Despite battling an upper-body injury during the playoffs, Makar contributed significantly with five points (four goals, one assist) and a plus-5 rating in 11 games.
Career Statistics and Playoff Dominance
Throughout his career, Makar has amassed 507 points, tallying 136 goals and 371 assists, alongside a plus-168 rating, 134 penalty minutes, 664 blocked shots, and 377 hits in 470 regular-season contests. In 90 playoff appearances, he has recorded 26 goals, 90 points, a plus-28 rating, 24 penalty minutes, 147 blocks, and 100 hits. His exceptional play was further recognized when he was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player of the Stanley Cup playoffs in the 2021-22 season.
Individual Honors and Team Success
Makar's trophy cabinet also includes three All-Star selections and the Calder Memorial Trophy as the NHL Rookie of the Year in the 2019-20 season. He was also named the top defenseman in both the 2021-22 and 2024-25 seasons. This past season, the Avalanche secured the Presidents' Trophy with the league's best record, overcoming the Los Angeles Kings and Minnesota Wild in the playoffs before ultimately being eliminated by the Vegas Golden Knights in the Western Conference finals.
Leadership Transition and Coaching Stability
Joe Sakic's recent return to the General Manager role, after previously serving as President of Hockey Operations, underscores a strategic shift for the organization. He took over from Chris MacFarland, who transitioned to President and GM of the Nashville Predators earlier this month. Sakic also confirmed the continuity of the coaching staff, with Head Coach Jared Bednar, 54, entering his final contractual year. Bednar boasts an impressive coaching record with the team, leading them to a Stanley Cup victory in 2022.
Confidence in the Coaching Staff
Sakic articulated his strong belief in Bednar's leadership, stating that the coach has the full confidence of both the players and the staff. He emphasized that Bednar is perceived as the ideal coach for the current team, commanding respect and fostering a strong playing environment. Sakic views Bednar not just as a coach, but as the organizational voice, whose philosophies resonate deeply with the players, a critical factor in their continued success.
