A Seventh-Round Pick Just Locked Up $900K and the League Isn't Ready For It

Alright, you guys gotta hear about this from the hockey world! The Colorado Avalanche just pulled off what looks like a seriously smart move. On Monday, June 29, they locked up forward Taylor Makar, yeah, Cale Makar's younger brother, to a two-year extension! And get this, the dude's gonna be raking in some decent cash, with reports indicating that contract is hitting $900,000 for that second year. Talk about a major glow-up for a late-round draft pick, right? For a guy picked 220th overall, this is a pretty sweet deal, showing the Avs really believe in his potential. You gotta respect the grind!

From Late Pick to Locking Down a Deal

This isn't just some throwaway deal, folks. We're talking a two-way contract for the 2026-27 season, worth $850,000 at the NHL level. That’s standard for a developing player. But then, for 2027-28? Boom! It switches to a one-way, guaranteed $900,000 contract. That's a serious vote of confidence from the Avs for the 25-year-old forward. Remember, this kid wasn't a top prospect, getting snagged in the seventh round back in the 2021 draft. He wasn't a can't-miss guy coming out of the gate, but he's clearly putting in the work and proving his worth. It’s the kind of gritty story that makes you appreciate the sport.

Making His Mark on the Ice

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n made his official NHL debut last November, a huge step for anyone drafted that late. In his first taste of the big league during the 2025-26 campaign, Makar got into 12 games. What did he do? He threw down a solid 17 hits, got seven shots on goal, and even chipped in with one blocked shot. Let's be real, those aren't flashy numbers that scream "superstar." But what they *do* show is that he's willing to get in there, play physical, and contribute to the team's effort. He’s showing grit and determination. The Avalanche front office clearly sees potential in him to grow into a more consistent, impactful NHL player, especially considering the value they're getting at that price point.

What This Deal Means Going Forward

So, while this might not be the blockbuster deal of the summer, it's a really sharp move by the Avalanche to secure some promising depth. Taylor Makar, at 25, is proving that hard work and perseverance can absolutely pay off big time, even when you're not a top-ten pick. You gotta love seeing that development. Keep an eye on him, because he's definitely one to watch as he tries to carve out an even bigger role for himself in Colorado. And honestly, every single GM in the league, especially those looking for value deals, should be taking notes on how the Avs are developing and locking up their late-round talent. It's a prime example of finding hidden gems!

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.