Colorado Avalanche address Cale Makar contract extension amid new AHL coaching hire

The Colorado Avalanche announced a new AHL bench head coach, a hire that had been widely discussed as a potential NHL candidate. At the same time, the team is negotiating a contract extension for star defenseman Cale Makar. Makar, a two‑time Norris Trophy winner who recorded 79 points (20 goals, 59 assists) in the 2025‑26 season and reached his 500th NHL point, enters the final year of his six‑year, $54 million deal. The salary cap for 2026‑27 is set at $104 million, allowing a maximum individual average annual value of about $20.8 million, a figure within reach for Makar. Avalanche President of Hockey Operations and GM Joe Sakic confirmed talks with Makar’s agent are underway and expressed confidence the agreement will be reached this summer. The combined news underscores the Avalanche’s focus on maintaining their core talent while also strengthening their development system.