Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar signed a six-year extension Saturday morning, the team announced. Per a league source, it’s worth $54 million, and the $9 million annual cap hit makes him Colorado’s second-highest-paid player behind Mikko Rantanen ($9.25 million).
Makar, 22, was the 2020 Calder Trophy winner as NHL rookie of the year and a 2021 Norris Trophy finalist as the league’s best defenseman.
“In just over two seasons, Cale has already established himself as one of the premier defensemen in the National Hockey League,” said Avalanche Executive Vice President / General Manager Joe Sakic. “His ability to play in all situations and at both ends of the ice makes him truly unique and we are excited to have him anchor our blueline for years to come.