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[Colorado Avalanche]

Colorado Avalanche Top 25 Under 25: #22 Chris Romaine

Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images

Our countdown continues with a defenseman continuing his NCAA career!

The Top 25 Under 25 is a collaboration by Mile High Hockey staff members. Six writers have ranked players under the age of 25 in the Colorado Avalanche organization as of September 1, 2025. Now, we’ll count down each of the 25 players ranked (plus one Honorable Mention).

Chris Romaine was drafted by the Colorado Avalanche back in 2022, where he was taken at 193rd overall in round six of that year’s draft. Since then, Romaine has continued to develop over the past handful of seasons, mostly in the USHL, before making the jump to NCAA hockey this past season. As seen in the sidebar here, his first season with the Ohio State Buckeyes was nothing too special, as he only played nine games for them, and didn’t record any points. That being said though, his defensive skills were on display during those games, as he recorded 11 blocked shots in those nine games.

Knowing that information, it’s easy to see that Romaine’s skill already lies in his defensive game for the most part, which is what you want to see from a prospect, in my opinion. Obviously you’d like to see the offense start to come for him, which we’ll get to in a second, but you want your defenseman to be good at defending first and foremost, which Romaine seems to be good at to this point. Hopefully he can improve upon his defensive game as he continues his development through NCAA hockey, and I’m confident that he will continue to improve.

As for what Romaine can improve on in his sophomore season, obviously you would like to see him record some points. Prior to playing for Ohio State, Romaine played for the Green Bay Gamblers of the USHL during the 203-24 season, in which he recorded six goals and 24 assists in 55 games. There’s obviously still plenty of time for Romaine to find his offensive game at the NCAA level, and I’m confident that he will find it, in due time. If Romaine is going to play for Colorado at the NHL level, he’s still a few years off and still has plenty of time to develop and this is reflected in our ranking of him.

2025 Top 25 Under 25​

#25 Louka Cloutier

#24 Ivan Yunin

#23 Nikita Ishimnikov

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...do-avalanche-top-25-under-25-22-chris-romaine

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Colorado Avalanche Top 25 Under 25: #24 Ivan Yunin

Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images

He’s like your average restaurant—good enough to say it’s okay, but more work is needed before he can be considered a Michelin establishment.

The Top 25 Under 25 is a collaboration by Mile High Hockey staff members. Six writers have ranked players under the age of 25 in the Colorado Avalanche organization as of September 1, 2025. Now, we’ll count down each of the 25 players ranked (plus one Honorable Mention).

In the fifth round of the 2024 NHL Draft, with the 137th overall pick, the Colorado Avalanche selected Ivan Yunin, a relatively unknown Russian goaltender.

When a player is selected late in the draft, the prevailing assumption tends to be dismissive — something along the lines of, “Well, this guy must not be very good. He’s unlikely to amount to much.” But that perspective is both shortsighted and unfair.

The reality is, every athlete who hears their name called has demonstrated a meaningful level of talent. Otherwise, they wouldn’t be in the draft conversation at all. Much like Major League Baseball, the sheer volume of skilled players today makes the landscape intensely competitive. And with each passing year, the bar continues to rise. The modern game demands more — faster thinking, sharper execution, deeper commitment.

We’ve reached a point in the sport’s evolution where only the exceptional — the truly special — will earn the right to play in the NHL. It’s no longer enough to be good. You have to be special.

As it stands, Yunin is very young so his developmental path is wide open. There’s a good chance of him becoming a solid depth prospect if he’s developed correctly. Standing at 6’2” and 196 pounds, he has good size at the goaltending position. Moreover, he has a solid foundation and an impressive junior résumé, but where he’s a little bit behind is experience in high-caliber professional leagues. That matters a lot.

Where Can Yunin Improve?

During the 2022–23 campaign, Ivan Yunin posted a remarkable .952 save percentage over 20 appearances with Russia’s U18 national team—a performance that quickly drew the attention of scouts. His game was marked by a composed presence in net, highlighted by sharp rebound control, disciplined positioning, and advanced puck-tracking ability for his age.

Consistency, however, remains an area of concern. Across 16 games with Omskie Krylia in the VHL—Russia’s second‑tier professional circuit—Yunin managed only an .881 save percentage, a figure that underscores the growing pains inherent in translating junior dominance to the demands of the pro game. The other fact is Yunin quickly rose to that level, as he only played in eight games at the MHL level and six the year prior.

Why Did Colorado Draft Him?

Realistically, Yunin doesn’t have a great shot at making the NHL. That’s not to say the possibility doesn’t exist—it does—but by any objective measure, it remains remote. Still, for the Avs, selecting Yunin represents a textbook example of a low-risk, high-upside proposition. If he blossoms into a high-caliber goaltender, the organization stands to benefit significantly without having invested substantial capital. If not, the cost of the gamble remains minimal.

It’s worth noting that Yunin’s standout .952 save percentage with Russia’s U18 national team was no anomaly; it demonstrated his raw shot-stopping ability. But the challenge lies in translating that performance into sustained success against professional competition. In all likelihood, Yunin will continue his development with Omskie Krylia in the VHL, where the focus will be on cultivating consistency and adapting to the rigors of the pro game. For now, his trajectory remains that of a long-term project, one that has very little chance of earning a high score.

2025 Top 25 Under 25​

#25 Louka Cloutier

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025/7/29/24476544/colorado-avalanche-top-25-under-25-24-ivan-yunin

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Colorado Avalanche Top 25 Under 25: #21 Nolan Roed

Photo by RJ Sangosti/MediaNews Group/The Denver Post via Getty Images

Another Avalanche seventh rounder recently added to the pipeline.

The Top 25 Under 25 is a collaboration by Mile High Hockey staff members. Six writers have ranked players under the age of 25 in the Colorado Avalanche organization as of September 1, 2025. Now, we’ll count down each of the 25 players ranked (plus one Honorable Mention).

Rounding out their recent 2025 draft class, the Colorado Avalanche selected left shot center Nolan Road at 214th overall in the seventh round. After a documented particular affinity with seventh rounders, there’s promise that their newest prospect may follow in their footsteps to a NHL contract and perhaps NHL games. First, the 19-year-old must begin his college career at St. Cloud State, though, where he’s set to join the incoming freshman class this fall.

The Avalanche like prospects on a longer timeline to pro hockey and Roed fits the bill as someone who played the last two seasons in the USHL before heading to college. In his first full season in the league, the native of White Bear Lake, Minnesota had a breakout year which earned him third All-Star team honors. With 60 points in 61 games including 27 goals, Roed led the Tri-City Storm in scoring.

Roed Warrior

Nolan Roed (@TriCityStorm ) cuts into the zone and finishes on the backdoor. The @SCSUHuskies_MH commit has three goals and three assists in his last four games - all on the road #USHL pic.twitter.com/Ac7I0zE3Zt

— USHL (@USHL) March 3, 2025​

NHL Central Scouting subsequently listed Roed at 135th for North American skaters in his second time through the draft, which is another hallmark of the Avalanche draft strategy. Overlooked late bloomers from the USHL on the NCAA path is where the organization has invested a lot of draft capital in recent years in the hopes that they can get an older college graduate across the finish line an into the NHL.

Per a St. Cloud State release, Colorado also has a certain familiarity with the program especially considering their recent signing of Husky goaltender Isak Posch.

“Roed is the fourth Husky to be drafted by the Avalanche, joining Mark Parrish (1996, third round, 79th overall), Jeff Finger (1999, eighth round, 240th overall) and Ben Storm (2013, sixth round, 153rd overall).”

There was a fairly strong consensus to rank Roed around the 20th spot. A new draftee gets the benefit of the doubt and he will have a lot of time in school to show his skill and contract potential. Unfortunately Roed did not skate at Avalanche development camp, presumably due to an injury, so that is another reason there isn’t much opinion formed on the young forward. But, Roed is ready for the next step at St. Cloud State and we’ll be watching closely.

2025 Top 25 Under 25​

#25 Louka Cloutier

#24 Ivan Yunin

#23 Nikita Ishimnikov

#22 Chris Romaine

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025/8/1/24473476/colorado-avalanche-top-25-under-25-21-nolan-roed

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Why a Sidney Crosby trade to Colorado remains a Pipe Dream

Photo by Michael Martin/NHLI via Getty Images

It doesn’t make sense.

The Colorado Avalanche offseason has been comparatively subdued, aside from a widely circulated and persistently reiterated rumor that continues to capture public attention.

Avs fans and analysts alike continue to harbor aspirations of acquiring Sidney Crosby via trade. However, such hopes are ultimately quixotic and unlikely to materialize.

Why Would The Penguins Trade Crosby?

There is little doubt that the Pittsburgh Penguins need to rebuild. However, the notion that they would part ways with the very face of their franchise is laughable at best. While the modern NHL rarely witnesses players spending their entire careers with a single organization, Crosby remains an emblematic exception.

If he were still in pursuit of his first Stanley Cup, the conversation might hold more weight. Consider the case of Ray Bourque, who, after 21 storied seasons in Boston, sought a trade to Colorado in 2000 in a final bid to hoist the Cup. Crosby, by contrast, has already etched his name into hockey lore with three championships. The impetus for such a departure simply doesn’t exist. Crosby doesn’t need to chase a fourth championship and doesn’t seem like the person that would abandon his original team to do so, but you never know.

Avalanche fans continue to nurture a faint glimmer of hope, grounded primarily in the sentimental narrative linking Crosby and Nathan MacKinnon—idol and protégé—both products of the modest yet mythologized community of Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia. It’s a heartwarming storybook premise, sure. But the NHL is a business, not a fairytale—and the likelihood of such a cinematic reunion materializing remains exceedingly slim.

Fleece Job

Should such a trade ever materialize, there is little doubt the Penguins would emerge as the clear beneficiaries. While Colorado would snag Crosby—briefly satiating an emotional fanbase prone to fickle swings of sentiment—the cost would be steep. The Avalanche would almost certainly be required to part with a substantial package, likely including multiple high-value draft selections, forward Martin Nečas—whose long-term commitment to the franchise remains uncertain—and perhaps an additional prospect of notable upside. Defenseman Sean Behrens, given his development trajectory and positional value, would almost assuredly be a key target for Pittsburgh in any negotiation.

Less than nine months removed from a significant knee injury that sidelined him for the entirety of the 2024–25 season, Behrens made a compelling return at Avalanche Development Camp, where he quickly reaffirmed his value within the organization. Adaptability remains a hallmark of his game. Following a 40-game stint with the University of Denver, Behrens demonstrated a remarkable ability to drive play from the blue line to the crease—often making his impact felt within a single period. His skating continues to be a distinct asset. Yet questions linger regarding his physical readiness for the NHL. Standing at 5-foot-10 and weighing just 177 pounds, Behrens will need to augment his strength and physicality to fully assert himself at the professional level. Fortunately for him, time is on his side. At just 22 years of age his developmental arc remains promising—further enhancing his value in any prospective trade negotiations.

From a broader strategic lens, the calculus behind a potential Crosby trade hinges on competing organizational timelines. The Avalanche would acquire Crosby—a generational talent and cultural icon—which would undoubtedly provide a short-term jolt of energy to the fanbase and locker room alike. At 37, however, Crosby’s window of elite productivity is finite. Meanwhile, Pittsburgh would secure a forward-looking foundation. Nečas, on the cusp of becoming a perennial 100-point contributor, coupled with a high-upside defenseman like Behrens and a package of draft capital, would allow the Penguins to accelerate their transition into the next generation.

In essence, the Pens would emerge as the long-term beneficiaries, stockpiling assets and youth for a sustainable rebuild. Colorado, by contrast, would be gambling on a narrow championship window—an inherently precarious proposition in a league where parity reigns supreme and nothing is ever guaranteed.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...crosby-trade-to-colorado-remains-a-pipe-dream

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Morning Flurries: Is summer over yet?

Photo by Helen H. Richardson/MediaNews Group/The Denver Post via Getty Images

It’s finally August, maybe something will happen.

Another day, another week of nothing of significance happening around the NHL and for the Colorado Avalanche. But it’s the middle of summer so let’s see what we can find.

Don’t miss the Mile High Hockey Top 25 Under 25 series. Amazingly, we identified 26 players in the Avalanche organization to profile. Catch up on #21-25 plus an honorable mention, HERE.

Brad Marchand had his day with the Stanley Cup and celebrations, so naturally Nova Scotia’s finest gathered. And why not jolt the rumor mill while they are at it?

Nathan MacKinnon and Sidney Crosby were both at Brad Marchand's Stanley Cup celebration

: mackinnon29/IG pic.twitter.com/F5g67LkBOK

— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) July 31, 2025​

Speaking of, we discussed why Sidney Crosby may not be a great fit for Colorado, though, HERE.

In preparation for the upcoming Milano Cortina Olympics in February, 2026 both MacKinnon and Crosby will join other Avalanche stars Cale Makar and Devon Toews at the Hockey Canada orientation camp in Calgary from August 26-28.

9⃣2⃣ players from 's men's, women's and para hockey programs have earned invites to National Teams Orientation Camp in Calgary.

9⃣2⃣ athlètes de hockey masculin, de hockey féminin et de parahockey du iront au camp d’orientation des équipes nationales à Calgary.

— Hockey Canada (@HockeyCanada) August 1, 2025​

Rumor has it that the Avalanche will wear the classic blue Quebec Nordiques jersey sometime this season. Nothing confirmed yet nor the frequency of use as it could be a one-off Heritage look. But who is excited to see the jersey back on the ice?

Apparently these are making a comeback?! #GoAvsGo pic.twitter.com/f1bqxaMf4c

— Adrian Hernandez (@AdoHernandez27) July 29, 2025​

What are you doing this summer to stay entertained? Let us know in the comments.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...avalanche-morning-flurries-is-summer-over-yet

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Colorado Avalanche Top 25 Under 25: #20 Linus Funck

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dobberprospects.com

We start the top twenty players under twenty-five with this year's 4th round pick!

The Top 25 Under 25 is a collaboration by Mile High Hockey staff members. Six writers have ranked players under the age of 25 in the Colorado Avalanche organization as of September 1, 2025. Now, we'll count down each of the 25 players ranked (plus one Honorable Mention).

The Colorado Avalanche didn't have much to do at this year's NHL Entry Draft, but they did manage to land a few fresh faces, including a young man from Sweden who is already a pretty large human being for his age. Could the Avalanche have found gold in the fourth round hills?

Linus Funck could prove a bright spot in an era where the Avalanche haven't been exactly crushing the development side of the organization. Scouts have labeled Funck as a rangy and intelligent defender with middle pair potential further down the road. Let's take a deeper look at what the kid is bringing to the table and what is on the horizon.

Linus Funck gör 2-1 till Luleå mot Västerås. pic.twitter.com/hakw5SNMDW

— Anton (@bolaniii9) March 2, 2025​

The key indicator of Funck's readiness is how he performs against his opponents in Luleå HF U20. Although Linus has spent all of his time in Sweden playing Juniors, which leaves a bit to be desired in the realm of experience, considering he's just 18 years old and has a promising frame, the potential for early NHL readiness is striking! Potential is great, but we are still developing Linus' origin story, which comes with a lot of opportunities for it not to work out. I, for one, hope his size allows him to settle in with older competition swiftly and start to develop a comfort level with a heightened speed of play.

Let's get Funck-y

With the 118th overall pick, we've selected Linus Funck. pic.twitter.com/Ob6gKOZFnX

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) June 28, 2025​

The part of Linus that has me excited is that he excels in all of the things that eventually form an NHL-caliber defender. His strength comes in breaking up rush attempts and using his size to send a message and affect the opposition. Typically, we long for young defensive prospects to come into their own as it pertains to retrieval and passing skill, but that's another tool in Lunus' game that could be nurtured to elite levels. Here's how Elite Prospects describes the young Swede:

“Funck uses his reach to kill rushes on top of the blue line and creates breakups along the wall with his physical presence. He is also highly effective on retrievals, mostly through smart first-touch passes.”

If the Colorado Avalanche can hit on a 118th pick, they deserve some flowers, and as we sit today, our 20th-ranked player under twenty-five has his future ahead of him. His potential path to becoming an NHL regular is far from determined, but he should have plenty of opportunities to prove his worth.

2025 Top 25 Under 25​

#25 Louka Cloutier

#24 Ivan Yunin

#23 Nikita Ishimnikov

#22 Chris Romaine

#21 Nolan Roed

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025/8/4/24480768/colorado-avalanche-top-25-under-25-20-linus-funck

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Why Ross Colton’s Best is Yet to Come

Photo by Michael Martin/NHLI via Getty Images

Ross Colton is finally being utilized correctly.

Ross Colton is poised to command greater attention across the league next season.

At 28 years old, Colton remains under contract with the Colorado Avalanche through the 2026–27 season. He signed a four-year agreement just over two years ago, carrying an average annual value (AAV) of $4 million—a modest figure for a player whose ceiling has yet to be fully realized.

When placed in an optimal environment, Colton has demonstrated the potential to be one of the NHL’s most dynamic and consistently underrated forwards. His defining moment came as a rookie, when he etched his name into hockey history by delivering the championship-clinching goal for the Tampa Bay Lightning in Game 5 of the 2021 Stanley Cup Final—a performance marked by exceptional poise and precision under pressure.

The following season, Colton evolved into a formidable depth contributor for the Lightning. Appearing in 79 games, he recorded 39 points (22 goals, 17 assists), a significant leap from his rookie campaign. He played in 49 more regular-season games than the year prior, and the expanded sample size only reinforced his upward trajectory. Nearly tripling his goal total and setting a then-career-high in assists, Colton solidified his status as a reliable secondary scorer. Ultimately, Tampa Bay, constrained by the league’s salary cap, was forced to part ways with him—a move less reflective of performance than of financial necessity.

Colorado Needs Colton To Be At His Best

Some pundits debated entering the offseason the possibility of trading Colton. Reminiscent of his situation with the Lightning, it was more due to concerns with the salary cap. However, with Charlie Coyle and Miles Wood shipped off to the Columbus Blue Jackets, that’s no longer a concern.

Not all Avalanche fans remain convinced. A segment of the fanbase has voiced disappointment with Colton’s performance, citing inconsistency and suggesting his skill set is better suited for the wing than at center. And they’re not wrong. In fact, that distinction gets to the heart of the issue. Allow me to elaborate.

Since arriving in Colorado, Colton has not been deployed in a role that fully leverages his strengths. During the 2023–24 season, head coach Jared Bednar made the strategic decision to shift Colton to center—a position he had never played at the NHL level. While Colton handled the assignment competently, the move ultimately blunted his offensive impact. He posted 40 points in 80 games, a respectable total given the circumstances, but one that arguably fell short of his potential. Had he remained on the wing, it’s reasonable to believe that number would have been significantly higher.

Indeed, the following season in 2024-25 offered a compelling glimpse into what Colton is capable of when placed in a more natural position. Early in the year, Bednar returned him to the wing, and Colton flourished playing alongside Nathan MacKinnon. For a brief window, he ranked among the league’s top three goal scorers, displaying a scoring instinct and offensive rhythm that hinted at Art Ross Trophy–caliber potential.

Unfortunately, that momentum came to an abrupt halt. In late October, during a game against the Chicago Blackhawks, Colton sustained a broken foot while blocking a shot in the second period. He attempted to play through the injury but was ultimately forced to leave the game. The diagnosis led to a stint on injured reserve, sidelining him for 17 games before he was able to return to the lineup.

Colton also sustained a lower-body injury in Game  1 of Colorado’s first-round playoff series against the Dallas Stars, exiting after logging just 7:04 of ice time. He would go on to miss the next six games, as the Avalanche were ultimately eliminated by Dallas for the second consecutive postseason.

In many ways, Colton’s tenure in Colorado has been defined by unrealized potential—hindered not by a lack of talent, but by positional misalignment and untimely injury.

Yet, there is reason for optimism. Colton has attacked the offseason with remarkable intensity, determined to reestablish himself as a critical piece of the Avalanche’s forward group. We were also on site to witness several of his training sessions firsthand, noting a renewed sharpness in both his skating and shooting mechanics.

For Avalanche fans, the takeaway is clear: Colton is primed for resurgence. As the 2025–26 campaign approaches, all signs point toward a breakout season.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...oltons-best-is-yet-to-come-colorado-avalanche

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Welcome to the new Mile High Hockey: A fresh look, fewer ads and a new feature

Things will look a little different around here today.

A few weeks ago we told you something new was coming to Mile High Hockey and today it’s here. Things are cleaner, faster and easier to use. There are the same writers, coverage, comments, and community you’ve come to rely on, now with less clutter and clunkiness.

Let’s dive in. If you scroll down the page on your phone or computer, it’s smoother. You’ll notice that the most talked-about stories have a bigger font displaying the number of comments. You’ll also see a section called Active Conversations to point you to the busiest conversations right now.

But there’s two changes we’re most excited to tell you about:

Fewer ads for logged-in users​

Our loyal readers and commenters are the heartbeat of our communities, and with this new design we’re excited to offer them fewer ads when they’re logged in. Specifically:

• Video players will no longer chase you down the page. Just scroll past one and it will be gone.
• Full page pop-ups that would sometimes interrupt your commenting experience have been disabled.

You can log in or sign up here and check it out.

A new feature by the community, for the community: The Feed​

Today we’re launching a brand new space for you to come together. The Feed is a running stream of posts and updates from you, the community, mixed in with links and updates from the team and our staff. Think of it as our community’s group text where you can easily grab your phone and share a link to a story, post a question or write your own post on the day’s news.

You can find it in two places:

• On the homepage, adjacent to the top stories. Community participation is core to who we are, so we want it right on the front page to share your stuff.
• A devoted homepage for The Feed where you can see the full stream of posts coming in from the community. You might want to bookmark that.

Log in or sign up here and you can start posting on The Feed and seeing fewer ads immediately.



Today’s launch is a big deal for our community, and it’s also a kickoff of broader efforts to build around the community we have here. Soon you’ll get alerts when someone replies to your comment or your post on The Feed, with more to come thereafter. We want to put the community in the driver’s seat, so let us know what you want in the comments below or in The Feed.

If you want to dig into more of this updated experience, head over to this post on sbnation.com from SB Nation’s Head of Product Ed Clinton, where he expands on the changes in our ads and design. Ed will be responding to questions in the comments. If you have any questions about how to log in to our new system, check out this article from last week.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/open...ckey-a-fresh-look-fewer-ads-and-a-new-feature

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Is Nathan MacKinnon Underpaid?

According to The Athletic’s NHL’s 10 best contracts, Colorado Avalanche superstar is underpaid by a large margin.

That could be true.

In the NHL, contracts matter. For better or worse, every player is judged based on the money he makes and whether he’s worth the price.

And this piece is about the players who are well worth the money.

@domluszczyszynhttps://t.co/6NoQcHJj28 pic.twitter.com/xbsCtg6srC

— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) July 29, 2025

MacKinnon is currently the third-highest paid player in the NHL, earning $12.6 million per year. This past season, the 29-year-old posted 116 points (32 goals, 84 assists) in 79 games played. The year prior, which was his best to date, saw MacKinnon play all 82 regular season games with a career-high 140 points (51 goals, 89 assists). In other words, MacKinnon was playing out of his mind. The two other players who make more money than him are Auston Matthews ($13.2 million AAV), and Leon Draisaitl ($14 million AAV).

Over the past two seasons, Matthews has a combined 185 points. MacKinnon, on the other hand, has 256 and has a Stanley Cup championship, as well as a Hart Memorial Trophy, awarded to league MVP, on his résumé. Draisaitl has posted 106 points the last two seasons and has scored at least 100 points per year in six of the last seven years. He has also won a Hart as well as a Maurice Rocket Richard Trophy, which is awarded to the player who scores the most goals in a single season.

What emerges from this comparison is not so much evidence that MacKinnon is undercompensated, but rather a clearer indication that the Maple Leafs are allocating a disproportionate premium to Matthews—though, given the organizational turmoil in Toronto, such a decision is expected.

As the salary cap continues to rise, MacKinnon’s contract will certainly represent a bargain for the team.

How Much Should MacKinnon Get Paid?

The Athletic believes MacKinnon’s contract should be worth $18.3 million AAV based on their valuation model. While that figure exceeds his existing contract by a significant margin, it gains credence when contextualized within the NHL’s projected salary cap trajectory.

The NHL circulated a memo to teams in January that the salary cap would jump to $95.5 million for the upcoming season from $88 million. This will follow with subsequent jumps in the cap to $104 million in 2026-27 and $113.5 million in 2027-28. Let’s say the cap remains at $113.5 million when MacKinnon’s contract expires at the end of the 2030-2031 season. That $18.3 million would account for roughly 16% of the cap.

MacKinnon will be 35 years old at the time of his free agency eligibility in 2031. Historically, players at this stage of their careers—regardless of prior dominance—rarely receive contracts reflecting full-market value, particularly not over long durations. For reference, even Alex Ovechkin, the greatest goal scorer ever, accepted a relative discount in 2021, re-signing with the Washington Capitals on a five-year, $47.5 million contract rather than exploring more lucrative options in unrestricted free agency.

Ultimately, the precise valuation of MacKinnon’s next contract will hinge on several interdependent factors: his on-ice production, health, leadership impact, and the state of the Avalanche as a whole. Should he maintain or exceed his current output, a salary in the $18 million to $19.5 million range would be consistent with his cap-adjusted market value. Conversely, if his performance regresses to a level that is still impactful but no longer elite, a more modest contract in the range of $13.5 million to $15 million AAV may be warranted—particularly if Colorado seeks to preserve cap flexibility for a younger squad.

We also have to think about the upcoming Cale Makar extension. His current six-year contract runs through the end of the 2026-27 season, with a $9 million AAV cap hit. The cap should settle at $104 million in 2026-27 and let’s say Makar gets eight years at $16.5 million. So two players will make up for about 32% of the cap give or take. In summary, while it is premature to definitively project MacKinnon’s future earnings, The Athletic’s valuation is right on the money should he continue to perform as one of the league’s premier forwards deep into his thirties.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...tories/24480267/is-nathan-mackinnon-underpaid

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Joel Kiviranta is back in Colorado

The wait is over, the Colorado Avalanche have finally made a move deep into the summer. And that is solidifying the return of depth forward Joel Kiviranta on a one-year deal.

The #GoAvsGo signed 29 y/o UFA F Joel Kiviranta to a 1 year $1.25M AAV contract

23P in 79GP

Rep'd by Mike Rautakallio

First on AAV @returnofaj https://t.co/jLLBkkXi3i

— PuckPedia (@PuckPedia) August 8, 2025

It always felt a little strange that after a season in which Kiviranta put up 16 goals that he went unsigned over a month after unrestricted free agency began. But, now he is back into the fold for one more season on a contract worth $1.25 million, which is pretty affordable. The delay calls into question what each party was looking for. Were the Avalanche looking for an upgrade, was Kiviranta looking for term? Considering Colorado locked up Parker Kelly and his 18 point career high at $1.7 million on a four-year extension this does seem a little light for Kiviranta even if nobody expects him to shoot 20% again.

Kiviranta likely slots in on the Avalanche third line even if they aren’t finished building the roster yet because of his favor with the coaching staff and prior usage. The team now has around $4 million in cap space left give or take depending how many extra two-way contracts they carry. There is still a pretty big glaring hole on the third line and ideally another left handed defenseman is needed. The other big question to answer before the season begins is the fate of Martin Nečas and if he gets a substantial contract extension or is traded to address said holes.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/nhl-free-agency/56518/joel-kiviranta-is-back-in-colorado

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Bryan Rust to Colorado? A trade of Promise for Leadership

While a trade for Sidney Crosby may not be ideal, the Colorado Avalanche would be wise to consider a more pragmatic—and potentially impactful—move.

Pursuing another Pittsburgh Penguin in Bryan Rust presents a compelling opportunity. His seasoned leadership, championship pedigree, and relentless competitive drive make him an ideal fit for an organization that, in recent years, has experienced more attrition than reinforcement. In a locker room seeking stability and renewed urgency, Rust’s presence could serve as both catalyst and compass.

At 33 years old, Rust quietly delivered a career-best season—31 goals and 65 points in 71 games—on a Penguins roster that spent much of the year mired near the bottom of the division. It’s one thing to thrive when surrounded by momentum and cohesion; it’s quite another to produce at a high level amid mediocrity. Rust’s performance speaks not only to his skill, but to his resilience and competitive integrity—qualities that are often undervalued but essential to any contending locker room.

As the Avalanche seek to capitalize on a championship window that grows narrower with each passing season, the integration of a proven winner like Rust offers both strategic value and cultural resonance. His addition would not only bolster Colorado’s playoff pedigree but also complement a roster that is aging. The result is a compelling balance of energy, experience, championship resolve, and much-needed depth.

The Necas Problem

The primary complication in pursuing a trade for Rust lies in Pittsburgh’s likely interest in a return. The Avalanche only have one valuable movable piece in Martin Nečas. Such a deal presents both benefits and drawbacks. On one hand, Colorado would be parting with a 26-year-old forward who possesses the skillset and trajectory to become a 90-to-100-point player within the next one to two seasons. On the other, concerns surrounding Nečas’s performance in high-leverage situations remain difficult to ignore. Despite his offensive potential, he has registered just 35 points in 66 career playoff games—a statistic that carries weight in Colorado, where fans are acutely attuned to postseason production. In a market that values timely execution as much as talent, Nečas’s inconsistency in critical moments could temper his perceived value.

Although Rust has accumulated 35 points in 71 career playoff games, he has been among Pittsburgh’s most consistent contributors during their recent postseason campaigns. Notably, in the 2022 playoffs, Rust recorded eight points in seven games—an impressive performance highlighted by six assists—demonstrating his ability to support his teammates in high-stakes situations, while the argument against Nečas is that he doesn’t show up when it matters.

A straight one-for-one trade involving Rust for Nečas would be unlikely. The transaction would likely require the inclusion of one or more draft picks, alongside Colorado assuming responsibility for half of Rust’s remaining contract as he is signed through the conclusion of the 2027–28 season, carrying a cap hit of $5.125 million per season.

How might the prospect of Bryan Rust donning an Avalanche jersey resonate with the fanbase? Furthermore, to what extent could his presence materially enhance the team’s performance? Let us know in the comments!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...to-colorado-a-trade-of-promise-for-leadership

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Colorado Avalanche Top 25 Under 25: #19 Max Curran

The Top 25 Under 25 is a collaboration by Mile High Hockey staff members. Six writers have ranked players under the age of 25 in the Colorado Avalanche organization as of September 1, 2025. Now, we’ll count down each of the 25 players ranked (plus one Honorable Mention).

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Name: Max Curran

Age: 18

Position: Center

Height: 6’3”

Weight: 187 lbs

Likely 2025-26 Team: Edmonton Oil Kings

2024 Rank: #16

Final Rank: #19

High Rank: #15 (Ezra)

Low Rank: #22 (Brennan)

2024-25 Statistics:

Tri-City Americans (WHL): 65 GP: 22G, 52A, 74P

After leading his WHL team, the Tri-City Americans, in points with 74 in 65 games last season, there’s a little bit of momentum behind forward prospect Max Curran. The soon-to-be 19-year-old still has one year in the WHL ahead of him before hopefully earning a contract from the Colorado Avalanche to play pro hockey in the AHL the following year. First, Curran will be playing on a new team in the upcoming season as he was traded to the Edmonton Oil Kings this summer. It’s a good opportunity for him as Edmonton has a strong program with some top NHL prospects.

Also, as part of his accomplishments built over the 2024-25 season, Curran was named the WHL’s Scholastic Player of the Year. Which sets up an interesting decision for him as the NCAA might be a better path for him than the AHL so early in his career and could be a true test of the new options for players. A NHL contract is tough to turn down, though, so we will see how it all unfolds.

Curran holds international potential as well as he is on the radar for this winter’s Czech World Juniors team after participating in multiple national teams including the Hlinka Gretzky tournament, Under-18 World Juniors and most recently the Five Nations Under-20 tournament.

Curran was drafted in the fifth round at 161st overall as part of Colorado’s mega nine-pick 2024 draft class. The intrigue on the left shot forward is obvious, he has good size and an impressive six-foot-three frame to build on with clear offensive ability. Curran possesses a nice shot but he doesn’t use it enough as evidenced by his 22-goal output last season, which at least was up from five the year before. His game is rather raw and the skating can be at times, though agility is more an issue than straight line speed. But the upside is real and the Avalanche will have to figure the best path for Curran to take advantage of his talents. Which is why our ranking of him and outside opinions are so varied.

2025 Top 25 Under 25​

#25 Louka Cloutier

#24 Ivan Yunin

#23 Nikita Ishimnikov

#22 Chris Romaine

#21 Nolan Roed

#20 Linus Funck

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...orado-avalanche-top-25-under-25-19-max-curran

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Colorado Avalanche Top 25 Under 25: #18 Jake Fisher

The Top 25 Under 25 is a collaboration by Mile High Hockey staff members. Six writers have ranked players under the age of 25 in the Colorado Avalanche organization as of September 1, 2025. Now, we’ll count down each of the 25 players ranked (plus one Honorable Mention).

Name: Jake Fisher

Age: 20

Position: Center

Height: 6’2

Weight: 192 lbs

Likely 2025-26 Team: DU Pioneers

2024 Rank: #18 (tie)

Final Rank: #18

High Rank: #13 Brennan

Low Rank: #23 Ryan

2024-25 Statistics:

DU Pioneers: 42GP: 8G, 7A, 15P

Jake Fisher has maintained his position on our poll since last year.

Fisher is coming off his first season as part of DU’s 2024-25 rookie class. He wasn’t good and he wasn’t bad, either. He appeared in 42 of 44 games and posted 15 points (8 goals, 7 assists). Although it doesn’t sound like much, that was good enough to be ranked second among all freshmen on the team. A scout would likely describe Jake Fisher as quietly consistent. He’s not the type of player who will grab attention with dynamic speed or flashy puck skills, but he earns trust by doing the little things right, shift after shift. Fisher plays a disciplined, north-south game with strong puck pursuit habits and a forechecking presence that forces opponents into costly mistakes.

Fisher may not be the most technically proficient skater, but he moves well enough to stay connected to the play. What he lacks in fluidity, he makes up for with positioning, timing, and a quiet competitiveness that keeps him consistently engaged. There’s a subtle counterpunching quality to his game—he won’t dictate pace, but he’s adept at reacting to breakdowns and capitalizing on the space created by others.

Offensively, Fisher possesses a good release and the instincts to find soft areas in the zone. He’s capable of finishing when opportunities arise, but his production is more reflective of those around him than of his individual creation. He’s not a playmaker by any means. Instead, he plays a supporting role—complementing puck-dominant linemates by staying in motion, presenting passing options, and finishing plays when set up.

In essence, Fisher is part of the cast, but not one of the marquee names. He’s in the movie, but not among the highest-paid stars. He’s just there—dependable, and rarely out of place. And while that may sound like faint praise, there’s value in players who bring consistency without demanding the spotlight.

Defensively, he’s solid and is very good at clearing the puck out of dangerous areas without putting his team in harms way. If he makes it to the NHL, expect him to be a bottom-six forward with potential for being included on an elite penalty kill unit.

He’s the hockey equivalent of a race car driver who could start 800 consecutive races and still fly under the radar—reliable, low-maintenance, and always on the gas. You may not notice Fisher every night, but you’ll rarely find a moment where he’s out of position or making costly errors. He straps in, does his job, and doesn’t wreck your stuff.

This pass by Zeev Buium & goal by Jake Fisher is SICK! pic.twitter.com/qfNK7SEAU8

— Denver Hockey (@DU_Hockey) October 19, 2024

2025 Top 25 Under 25​

#25 Louka Cloutier

#24 Ivan Yunin

#23 Nikita Ishimnikov

#22 Chris Romaine

#21 Nolan Roed

#20 Linus Funck

#19 Max Curran

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...rado-avalanche-top-25-under-25-17-jake-fisher

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Colorado Avalanche Top 25 Under 25: #17 Saige Weinstein

The Top 25 Under 25 is a collaboration by Mile High Hockey staff members. Six writers have ranked players under the age of 25 in the Colorado Avalanche organization as of September 1, 2025. Now, we’ll count down each of the 25 players ranked (plus one Honorable Mention).

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Name: Saige Weinstein

Age: 20

Position: Defenseman (L)

Height: 6’ 1”

Weight: 190 lbs

Likely 2025-26 Team: Utah Grizzlies

2024 Rank: #17

Final Rank: #17

High Rank: #12 (Jess)

Low Rank: #22 (Adrian)

2024-25 Statistics:

• Spokane Chiefs (GP: 65, G: 3, A:24)

Saige Weinstein was signed by the Colorado Avalanche to an entry-level contract back in October of 2023 following an impressive showing at training camp. Since then, Weinstein went back to the WHL for two seasons to complete his junior requirements and play for the Spokane Chiefs. After this past season with the Chiefs, which saw Weinstein play 65 games while scoring three goals and recording 24 assists, the expectation is that Weinstein will play pro and hopefully join the Colorado Eagles for the upcoming season. Their blueline in Loveland is pretty crowded at least to start so it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Weinstien play the season with the Utah Grizzlies in the ECHL.

Throughout his career thus far, Weinstein has been a player who uses his size at six-foot-one with physicality but can activate in games, making him a valuable option for teammates and other players during games. It’s easy to see why Colorado likes Weinstein so much, given those attributes of his. Weinstein pretty perfectly fits into the “Colorado Avalanche-style defenseman” mold that we’ve come to recognize who hopefully at the pro level can jump into play, bring the physicality and is also responsible in his own end.

As for what’s next for Weinstein, as previously mentioned, the expectation is that he’ll begin playing pro and hopefully join the Colorado Eagles for the upcoming 2025-26 season if he’s not pushed to Utah due to veterans in the AHL ahead of him on the depth chart. As he makes the jump from the WHL to pro hockey, hopefully he can keep up his play and continue to develop as a player. He has all the right tools right now to be a perfect Avalanche defenseman; it’s just a matter of continuing to develop and build upon those skills as a player. If Weinstein does just that, I can see him possibly being a legitemate option for the Avs in their defenseive core down the line here, and I’m excited to see how he continues to develop and grow.

2025 Top 25 Under 25​

#25 Louka Cloutier

#24 Ivan Yunin

#23 Nikita Ishimnikov

#22 Chris Romaine

#21 Nolan Roed

#20 Linus Funck

#19 Max Curran

#18 Jake Fisher

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...-avalanche-top-25-under-25-17-saige-weinstein

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Colorado Avalanche Top 25 Under 25: #16 Francesco Dell’Elce

The Top 25 Under 25 is a collaboration by Mile High Hockey staff members. Six writers have ranked players under the age of 25 in the Colorado Avalanche organization as of September 1, 2025. Now, we’ll count down each of the 25 players ranked (plus one Honorable Mention).

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Name: Francesco Dell’Elce

Age: 20

Position: Defense (L)

Height: 6’1”

Weight: 179 lbs

Likely 2025-26 Team: UMass Amherst

2024 Rank: N/A

Final Rank: #16

High Rank: #12 (Multiple)

Low Rank: #25 (Jess)

2024-25 Statistics:

• UMass: 40 GP: 7G, 17A, 24P

The headliner of the Colorado Avalanche’s 2025 draft class is an interesting prospect, which is why he fell in the middle of our rankings with such a wide range of votes. Francesco Dell’Elce went through the draft twice before getting selected in the third round at 77th overall in his last year of draft eligibility at 20 years of age but is on an upward trajectory.

Dell’Elce is a left shot defenseman who experienced a breakout season in his freshman year at UMass Amherst. He took the long road before beginning his NCAA career but with programs very familiar to the Avalanche as Dell’Elce spent three years at St. Andrews College prep school, where Alex Newhook and Matt Stienburg spent time and then to Tyson Jost’s Penticton Vees before joining the collegiate program at UMass which produced Cale Makar.

With 24 points in 40 games, which led the Minutemen in scoring from the backend, Dell’Elce received Hockey East All-Rookie honors. He was firmly on the draft radar ranked at 82nd for North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting heading into the 2025 draft. The Avalanche didn’t take a chance and see if he’d fall to their pick in the fourth round as they grabbed Dell’Elce with their first pick in the draft in the third round.

Another goal for Dell'Elce. pic.twitter.com/ByHKK87N8K

— Brock Otten (@BrockOtten) December 7, 2024

Clearly with the numbers he produced Dell’Elce has shown offensive capabilities especially as he continues to refine his game at UMass. The program obviously knows how to develop defensemen and it is a good sign he was entrusted by the coaching staff with a big role as a freshman. There is tempered upside, though, as the King City, Ontario native continues to improve on his puck play and aggressiveness. A career trajectory like Avalanche defenseman Sam Malinski wouldn’t be out of the question for Dell’Elce as they have similar agility and puck moving ability. When Dell’Elce is ready to leave school he should be primed to step into the pro game at an older age much like Malinski did as well. Another strong year at UMass would have Dell’Elce moving up our ranks on next year’s poll and on the radar among the organization’s top defensive prospects.

2025 Top 25 Under 25​

#25 Louka Cloutier

#24 Ivan Yunin

#23 Nikita Ishimnikov

#22 Chris Romaine

#21 Nolan Roed

#20 Linus Funck

#19 Max Curran

#18 Jake Fisher

#17 Saige Weinstein

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...alanche-top-25-under-25-16-francesco-dellelce