Cale Makar’s record-breaking $163.2MM, eight-year contract with a $20.4MM cap hit has reshaped the NHL landscape, eclipsing previous highs set by Macklin Celebrini and Leo Carlsson. As the Avalanche prepare for a $101MM payroll in 2027-28, teams like the Vegas Golden Knights ($41.1MM), New York Rangers ($36.75MM), and New Jersey Devils ($36.5MM) lead in defensive spending. The analysis highlights the financial strategies of these teams amid the evolving salary cap environment.
