The Colorado Avalanche have secured Martin Nečas with a substantial eight-year contract extension worth $92 million, announced by the team. The agreement carries an annual cap hit of $11.5 million, with $60 million allocated as signing bonuses. This deal, which includes a no-movement clause from the 2026-27 season through to the 2032-33 season, ensures that Nečas will remain a key player for the Avalanche until at least the 2033-34 season.
The decision to extend Nečas comes after a series of recent lucrative contract signings across the NHL, including those of stars like Connor McDavid and Jack Eichel. Instead of exploring free agency, Nečas has opted for a long-term commitment to Colorado, reinforcing his importance to the team.
Nečas has quickly established himself as a cornerstone for the Avalanche, taking on the role of their no. 2 forward behind Nathan MacKinnon following significant trades made during the previous season. The team dealt star winger Mikko Rantanen, bringing Nečas to Colorado, and avoiding a repeat of the contract struggles that led to Rantanen’s trade to the Dallas Stars. The Avalanche’s foresight in locking up Nečas may prove beneficial, as they managed to secure his services for $500,000 less annually than Rantanen’s new deal.
In recent months, Nečas has shown remarkable performance, surpassing the point-per-game mark for the first time in the 2024-25 season with an impressive 83 points in 79 games, including a notable contribution of 28 points in 30 games after joining the Avs. His strong start to the current season continues, with seven goals and 13 points in just 11 contests, alongside a notable increase in his ice time.
Signing Nečas to this extension means he is now the seventh player on the Avalanche roster signed through at least 2030. This strategic move keeps the team’s core intact, consisting of MacKinnon, Valeri Nichushkin, and others, while positioning them well for future salary cap management. Despite projected tightness in the salary cap for the 2026-27 season, the Avalanche are in a favorable position since their highest-paid players will remain under contract.
The Avalanche’s confidence in Nečas is reflected not only in his scoring prowess but also in his improved possession play since joining the team. The organization is optimistic that Nečas will maintain his upward trajectory as a dynamic contributor. With recruitment of young talent and core players locked into long-term deals, the future looks bright for this Avalanche roster as they aim to build on their success.