Martin Nečas Signs 8-Year, $11.5M AAV Deal with Avalanche

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Martin Nečas Signs 8-Year, $11.5M AAV Deal with Avalanche

Martin Nečas has signed a significant eight-year contract worth $92 million, averaging $11.5 million annually, with the Colorado Avalanche. This deal ensures that Nečas will remain with the Avalanche, enhancing their roster with one of the premier forwards in the NHL.

Deal Details

Nečas’ new contract includes $60.4 million in signing bonuses. His average annual value (AAV) makes him the second-highest paid player on the Avalanche, just behind Nathan McKinnon, who has an AAV of $12.6 million.

Importance of This Contract

This is Nečas’ first long-term contract since entering the league.
He was previously on a two-year deal with an AAV of $6.5 million signed with the Carolina Hurricanes.
Negotiations were complex, influenced by upcoming contracts, particularly Cale Makar’s extension.

Performance Highlights

Nečas, drafted 12th overall by Carolina in 2017, is enjoying his best start to a season. He has recorded seven goals and six assists in just 11 games. Throughout last season, he achieved a career-high of 83 points, including 28 points in 30 games after the trade to Colorado.

Trade Background

Nečas joined the Avalanche as part of a blockbuster trade involving star forward Mikko Rantanen. Rantanen was subsequently moved to the Dallas Stars, where he signed an eight-year extension.

Future Implications for UFA Class

Nečas’ decision to re-sign further diminishes the pool of unrestricted free agents (UFA) available in 2026. Major stars like Kirill Kaprizov, Connor McDavid, Jack Eichel, and Kyle Connor have also recently signed extensions, indicating a trend towards stability within their respective teams.

Upcoming UFA Considerations

Adrian Kempe of the Los Angeles Kings is a prominent name expected to enter free agency.
Other aging stars like Alex Ovechkin, Evgeni Malkin, and Artemi Panarin could also become available soon.
Young talents Jason Robertson and Trevor Zegras will need new contracts next summer, making them arbitration-eligible restricted free agents.

Nečas’ long-term commitment to the Avalanche demonstrates his desire to succeed in a team environment that complements his playing style and leverages his skills effectively.