Martin Necas' future with the Colorado Avalanche is uncertain as he approaches the end of his contract, potentially leading to a trade. The recent record-setting contract signed by Kirill Kaprizov is expected to have a ripple effect across the league, influencing the demands of other pending unrestricted free agents (UFAs). This situation is particularly relevant to the Avalanche and Necas.
Necas, currently 26 years old, is finishing a two-year bridge deal with an average annual value (AAV) of $6.5 million. He initially signed this contract with the Carolina Hurricanes in July 2024. In January 2025, he was traded to the Avalanche as part of a blockbuster deal that sent Mikko Rantanen to Carolina.
During the past season, Necas showcased his talent by scoring 27 goals and achieving 83 points in 79 games, split between his time with the Hurricanes and the Avalanche. He also contributed five points in seven playoff games for Colorado. If Necas continues his point-per-game production, his market value could exceed $10 million annually.
According to NHL insider Frank Seravalli, the Avalanche might hesitate to meet Necas' contract demands, especially if Necas uses Kaprizov's lucrative deal as a benchmark. While the Avalanche value Necas, they may not be willing to approach the financial demands Necas' representatives might be asking.
The Avalanche face a similar situation with Necas as they did with Rantanen, whom they ultimately traded due to difficult contract extension talks. Rantanen was later traded from Carolina to the Dallas Stars and signed a long-term extension with a $12 million AAV.
The Avalanche have about $16 million in salary cap space available but need to fill eight roster spots. Extending Necas' contract poses a financial challenge, particularly with Cale Makar potentially commanding a significantly higher cap hit in future negotiations.
While no formal offers have been made, the Avalanche intend to observe Necas' performance this season before engaging in substantial negotiations. Some reports suggest that Necas might be unhappy with his fit in Colorado, potentially leading him to seek the highest possible offer and test the open market if the Avalanche are unwilling to meet his demands.
Given these factors, the Avalanche might consider trading Necas to acquire draft capital or strengthen their roster. Rumors have circulated that Necas has been unsatisfied with his time in Denver. If the Avalanche decide to trade Necas, they would aim to free up cap space and acquire suitable replacements.
