NHL insider's latest comments on Avalanche star has fans worried on what's to come
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NHL insider Elliotte Friedman's latest comments regarding Colorado Avalanche superstar defenseman Cale Makar have left fans concerned and speculating about what the upcoming season might hold for the team.
The Avalanche could face a challenging situation in the near future as their superstar blueliner's next contract comes up in just two years.
NHL insider's latest words on Cale Makar raises concern among Avalanche fans.
Nestor Quixtan from Mile High Sticking writes that Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar has now emerged as the center of attention for the next big contract in the NHL. With two years left on his current deal, he will be eligible to sign an extension starting July 1, 2026.
"But that situation has not deterred speculation regarding Makar's next contract. As NHL insider Elliotte Friedman noted in the latest edition of his 32 Thoughts blog, Cale Makar could be the next 'nuclear explosion' to take place in the NHL." -Quixtan
In particular, Friedman emphasized that the Colorado Avalanche might simply have to pay Makar whatever he demands.
"Now that Kaprizov and McDavid are done, all eyes are on Cale Makar as the next potential nuclear explosion. Colorado's been preparing for it, and may just hand him a blank cheque." -Friedman
That could mean Makar commanding virtually any figure he wants, leaving the Avalanche with little choice but to meet his demands. Fans will likely accept it, so long as it doesn't jeopardize the team's ability to stay competitive over the long term.
Naturally, another Stanley Cup would make it far easier for the Avalanche to justify paying Makar. However, both the team and the player will need to remain mindful of other contracts that will require attention in the years ahead.
"Connor McDavid was believed to be the piece that set off a chain reaction throughout the league. Had he eclipsed Kirill Kaprizov's deal, an arms race would have ensued throughout the NHL. His selfless act in giving the Oilers a break likely took the wind out of the potential bidding war for the league's biggest stars.
With that in mind, could Cale Makar pull a «McDavid» and give the Avalanche a break on a short-term deal?" -Quixtan
With that in mind, could Cale Makar pull a «McDavid» and give the Avalanche a break on a short-term deal?" -Quixtan
It all depends on how the Avalanche perform this season. If they're positioned for a deep playoff run, Makar might be willing to make concessions for the team.
But if the Avalanche struggle or regress, doubts could arise about his willingness to commit to a long-term extension.
"That's why it has to be Stanley Cup or bust for the Colorado Avalanche in 2025-26." -Quixtan
GM Chris MacFarland and his team need to construct a roster that Cale Makar views as a legitimate Stanley Cup contender. So far, the consensus is that they're on the right track.
However, there's a big difference between being highly ranked in the preseason and actually winning games once the season begins.
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