Cale Makar’s Extension Overshadows Artturi Lehkonen’s Contract Talks

As July 1, 2026, has come and gone, Cale Makar finds himself at the center of contract discussions, poised to become an unrestricted free agent next summer. With the salary cap projected to rise significantly, what seems like a reasonable contract today may seem like a bargain by this time next year, especially if Makar puts together another Norris Trophy-caliber season.

Joe Sakic has indicated that a contract for Makar will be finalized this summer, but the focus on Makar brings another player into the spotlight: Artturi Lehkonen. Currently in the final year of a five-year, $22.5 million deal with a $4.5 million cap hit, Lehkonen presents a unique challenge for the Avalanche as they consider his future with the team. The 32-year-old winger has struggled with injuries, raising questions about his value and the terms of a potential extension.

Lehkonen’s contributions to the Avalanche cannot be overstated. A key player in their 2022 Stanley Cup run, his ability to impact games remains vital, despite ongoing injury issues. When healthy, his work ethic and versatility make him an irreplaceable asset, but his injury history complicates the negotiation process.

The NHL landscape is evolving, with the salary cap expected to reach $113 million by the 2027-28 season. This anticipated growth presents both opportunities and challenges for teams like the Avalanche, who must navigate the complexities of player contracts in light of the rising cap. Each year, negotiations become more intricate as teams, agents, and players adapt to the new financial realities.

Lehkonen’s next contract will be shaped by several factors, including his age, injury history, and overall production. Since joining the Avalanche in the 2021-22 season, he has only played more than 70 games twice, missing significant time in other seasons. His playoff performance adds to his value, but the question remains: how does he compare to other wingers in similar situations?

Lehkonen’s production—104 goals and 112 assists for 216 points—doesn’t fully capture his potential impact when healthy. His two-way play and penalty-killing abilities are critical for the Avalanche, especially during crucial playoff moments. However, the concern over his injury history looms large as the team considers a new contract that could extend into his mid-to-late thirties.

When evaluating potential contract figures, it’s essential to consider the market for players in similar positions. Many players with comparable production and age command cap hits that take up around 6% of their team’s salary cap. With the impending cap increase, this percentage could rise, which may bolster Lehkonen’s case for a deal exceeding $5 million AAV. If he performs at his peak, he could even argue for more than $6.5 million.

The Avalanche must weigh whether a $6.5+ million contract is feasible given their financial structure. A range of $5-6 million may be more palatable, but the term of the deal is equally critical. How long does the team want to maintain its core group, and do they believe they can compete for championships with this lineup?

While Lehkonen’s importance to the team is clear, his age and injury concerns necessitate a careful approach to any new contract. Striking a balance between value and term, while considering potential shifts in the lineup as younger wingers emerge, could be the best strategy for the Avalanche moving forward.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.