Cale Makar Is Staying in Colorado Forever, And The West Has No Answer

Alright, Seattle hockey faithful, buckle up, because the Colorado Avalanche just made a move that should send shivers down every other team's spine in the Western Conference. We're talking about Cale Makar, their superstar defenseman, getting locked in for his entire career. President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Joe Sakic literally said on Thursday that Makar is "going to finish his career here." Can you believe that? They're not messing around, and honestly, it's a gut punch for anyone hoping he might one day wear something other than burgundy and blue.

Sakic's Bold Promise and Makar's Monster Numbers

It's clear the Avs aren't playing games. Makar, who's only 27, can sign an extension on July 1. He's currently on a six-year, $54 million deal that runs through the 2026-27 season. Sakic laid it out: "We're already talking to his agent, so we're confident that something's going to get worked out at some point. I mean, he's got another year, but this summer we expect to have him signed." That's a strong statement, and it shows just how much they value their homegrown talent, who they drafted fourth overall back in 2017. And why wouldn't they? This guy is a certified beast. This season alone, Makar put up 79 points, with 20 goals and 59 assists, plus a ridiculous plus-32 rating in 75 games. He was a finalist for the Norris Trophy for the sixth year in a row, even though he just missed out to Zach Werenski of the Blue Jackets this time. Think about that consistency! He's already a two-time Norris winner, a three-time All-Star, and snagged the Calder Memorial Trophy as Rookie of the Year back in 2019-20. Oh, and let's not forget he won the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP in 2021-22. With 507 career regular-season points and 90 playoff points, this dude is the real deal.

A Coach Who Gets It, Despite the Playoff Heartbreak

Despite having the league's best record this season, grabbing the Presidents' Trophy with a staggering 55-16-11 finish and 121 points, the Avs' playoff run ended in heartbreak. They swept the Kings and beat the Wild in five games, but then got swept by the Vegas Golden Knights in the Western Conference finals. That's gotta sting, even with Makar still managing five points in 11 playoff games while battling an upper-body injury. Interestingly, Sakic, who just took over as GM this month after Chris MacFarland headed to Nashville, also pledged loyalty to head coach Jared Bednar. Bednar is going into his final contract year, but Sakic says the coaching staff is staying intact. "He's got the confidence from the players. It's clear from everybody, from players, the staff, that he's the right guy. They respect him, they love playing for him," Sakic said. Bednar's coached them for 10 regular seasons, with 445 wins, and led them to a Stanley Cup in 2022. It looks like the Avs believe continuity is key, even after a tough playoff exit. So, what does this all mean? Colorado is doubling down on their core, led by Makar and Bednar. While we're all looking forward to seeing what Matty Beniers and Joey Daccord can do for our Kraken next season, knowing Makar is locked up long-term in Colorado just means the path to a Cup from the West just got a whole lot tougher for everyone else. Better get ready, because that Avalanche core isn't going anywhere.

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