Cale Makar and Quinn Hughes, the NHL’s top defensemen on expiring contracts, are poised to set new records for average annual value (AAV) in their extensions. Hughes, potentially signing with the Minnesota Wild, might aim for a three-year deal around $19 million AAV, while Makar could seek a five-year extension for $19.5 million AAV with the Colorado Avalanche. The rising salary cap and recent contracts, like Macklin Celebrini’s, will influence negotiations. Ultimately, Hughes is likely to sign first, followed by Makar.
