A major contract extension has sent shockwaves through the NHL as a star forward has been locked up to a long-term, high-value deal, following closely on the heels of another blockbuster signing by the same team. The move comes less than a year after the franchise committed over $90 million to a center, raising questions about salary cap management and future roster flexibility. With both players now tied to multi-year commitments, the team faces the challenge of balancing star power with sustainable long-term planning. Fans and analysts are dissecting whether this aggressive spending strategy will pay off or leave the organization stretched thin.

Makar's contract comes less than a year since the Avalanche signed forward Martin Necas to an eight-year, $92 million contract ($11.5 million AAV) on Oct. 30, 2025. Center Nathan MacKinnon, meanwhile, ...