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Avalanche Likely to Make Martin Necas Move, Claims League Source

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated Oct 11, 2025 11:45 AM ET

The Colorado Avalanche could soon face another major roster decision involving a star forward.

According to James Murphy of RG Media, the Avs are bracing for the possibility of trading forward Martin Necas due to long-term cap constraints tied to Cale Makar’s looming contract extension.

Murphy cited a league source who believes the Avalanche may not have the financial flexibility to retain both players, with Necas playing out his contract this season.

“I’d be stunned if he even finishes the season with the Avalanche, let alone extends in Colorado,” an NHL pro scout told RG.

#GoAvsGo winger Martin Necas is one of the few big fish left on the 2026 NHL free agent market. However, the question with Necas now isn't whether he'll reach the market but rather if he'll be traded before that?

Could the #LeafsForever or #NYR pounce?https://t.co/WyKhTjF4I7
— Jimmy Murphy (@MurphysLaw74) October 9, 2025

Makar, who is eligible to sign a new deal next summer, is expected to command upwards of $17 million annually when his next contract begins in 2027.

“I don’t see how the Avalanche make it happen with Necas,” one NHL scout told RG Media. “They need to lock up Cale Makar next offseason, and even with the cap going up, where are they finding the money to give Necas?”

Necas, 26, is in the final season of a two-year, $13 million contract and will be an unrestricted free agent in 2026 if he doesn't agree to an extension before July 1.

He scored 83 points in 79 games last season between the Carolina Hurricanes and the Avalanche and, according to The Fourth Period, could be seeking an extension in the range of $10 million per year.

Colorado Avalanche center Martin Necas (88) warms up before a game.Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Colorado general manager Chris MacFarland confirmed on Monday that conversations with Necas’ agent are ongoing, but no resolution is in sight yet.

“I’ve chatted with the agent,” MacFarland said. “We’d like to get something done. I think that’s kind of the update. Any free-agent-to-be, there’s a number of them still out there, and when you find the connection, you find the connection, and it gets announced.

“Sometimes early, sometimes mid-year, sometimes late. That’s the challenging part of the business.”

The Avalanche, who have started the season 2–0–0, host the Dallas Stars on Saturday night at Ball Arena.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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