NHL Rumors: Makar Deal, Hughes Jumpstart, and Oilers Injury Reaction – The Hockey Writers – NHL Rumors

In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the Colorado Avalanche appear to be closing in on a massive contract extension for Cale Makar that could reset the NHL’s defenseman market. Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers are dealing with a concerning wave of injuries heading into training camp, which could force them back into the free-agent market. Finally, could Makar’s new deal also help set the asking price for Minnesota Wild star Quinn Hughes and Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski?

Cale Makar and Avalanche Closing in on Blockbuster Extension

One of the summer’s biggest pieces of business appears to be done, with Cale Makar and the Colorado Avalanche reportedly agreeing to terms on a contract extension. Insider Elliotte Friedman indicated Thursday morning that an announcement was coming, describing the deal as a critical piece of business for Colorado.

“About to go off-line for a bit, but the much-anticipated extension for Cale Makar and Colorado is closing in Going to be a biggie…but a critical piece of business for the Avalanche.”

The two-time Norris Trophy winner is expected to command one of the richest contracts in NHL history, but if he goes for a shorter term, it might just be the highest AAV. A shorter three-year deal could be the way he leans, rather than a five- or six-year extension. The Avs would love to get him locked in for eight years, and the deal being announced right away could suggest both sides beat the September 16 deadline to do so.

Adrian Hernandez of MileHighHockey writes, “If the Makar contract is for 8 years, prepare yourself for a historically large AAV and incentives package/front loaded structure. If the above isn’t true, it will be one of the most team-friendly contracts ever.”

Makar Could Set the Market for Quinn Hughes

Makar’s extension could have implications well beyond Colorado. Speculation already suggests the contract could jumpstart talks between Quinn Hughes and the Minnesota Wild. This deal may also impact eventual talks between the Blue Jackets and Zach Werenski (he has two seasons left on his deal).

One theory suggested that Hughes’ camp was waiting to see Makar’s number. If Makar lands a massive annual salary, it could give Hughes the comparable from which to negotiate what many believe will be a three-year extension.

If Makar goes short term, Hughes (who was already leaning that way) will likely stick to his guns. Both players are still firmly in their prime and can anchor a Stanley Cup contender. Makar’s new deal may become the number everyone watches before the next wave of major defenseman contracts falls into place.

Oilers Could Return to Free-Agent Market After Injury News

The Edmonton Oilers received some difficult injury news Wednesday, learning that Matt Savoie, Frederik Andersen, Alec Regula and Mattias Janmark will miss the start of training camp next month. There are questions about whether all four will be ready for the beginning of the regular season. TSN’s Ryan Rishaug reports that Savoie and Andersen should be back in October.

That has prompted Oilers Now host Bob Stauffer to suggest Edmonton could look at the current unrestricted free-agent market, particularly for a player with penalty-killing experience. Savoie and Janmark are both expected to play important roles on the penalty kill, creating a potential hole that the Oilers may need to address.

Savoie and Andersen were injured in off-ice training sessions. Savoie’s injury is speculated to be related his a knee issue. Obviously, neither injury is good timing for the Oilers.

What About Edmonton’s Goaltending?

The biggest concern for Edmonton could ultimately be in goal. With Andersen sidelined, the Oilers are left with Devon Levi and Tristan Jarry as their projected tandem. Neither option provides much certainty.

Jarry is coming off a difficult 2025-26 campaign, while Levi remains relatively inexperienced at the NHL level. That combination has already sparked speculation that Edmonton could revisit the free-agent market for another goaltender. Connor Ingram remains unsigned and was mentioned by fans as a potential option.

The alternative is to remain patient. Edmonton has roughly $4.7 million in current cap space, which could grow significantly by the trade deadline if the team allows it to accrue. Mathieu Joseph and Jason Dickinson can help absorb penalty-killing responsibilities in the short term.