A landmark contract has reshaped the NHL’s salary landscape as a top defenseman inked an eight-year, $163.2 million deal, making him the league’s first player to surpass the $20 million annual mark. The agreement, structured to avoid salary cap strain, includes a unique escalator clause tied to performance metrics, setting a new benchmark for defensemen’s earnings. Analysts note the deal’s potential ripple effects across the league, where high-value contracts for non-forward positions remain rare. The move underscores the growing financial clout of elite defensemen in modern hockey.

Cale Makar became the NHL's first $20 million man on Friday. The 27-year-old defenseman signed an eight-year, $163.2 million contract with the Colorado Avalanche. The deal, which ...