Cale Makar has agreed to an eight-year extension with the Colorado Avalanche that will make him the highest-paid player in NHL history. The deal carries a $20.4 million average annual value, making him the first player in league history to make at least $20 million per season.

Makar, 27, has been a finalist for the Norris Trophy as the league's top defenseman for six consecutive seasons. He is one of only 14 players to win multiple Norris Trophies, winning the award twice -- most recently in 2025.

The extension comes as this summer has seen record-breaking contracts in the NHL thanks to a rising salary cap, including massive deals for young centers Macklin Celebrini and Leo Carlsson. Makar is a centerpiece for the Avalanche, perennial Stanley Cup contenders who won the Presidents' Trophy last season.