RSS Avalanche Team Notes

[Colorado Avalanche]

Morning Flurries: Landeskog nominated for an ESPY

Photo by Dustin Bradford/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Also, details of Brent Burns’ one-year contract revealed.

It's not often we get an interview with a newly signed player but Brent Burns shared some time with the media right after inking his one-year contract with the Colorado Avalanche.

Also, the detail of Burns’ performance bonus-laden contract were revealed including a $3M bonus just for playing 10 games, which essentially makes his contract a $4M deal at minimum.

Brent Burns 1 year #GoAvsGo Deal:

Salary $1M
Potential Performance Bonuses $4M:
-$3M @ 10 GP
-$1M if plays 23+ minutes in 70 GP

Cap Hit $1M, AAV $5M

Rep'd by Ron Salcer

Correcting previous tweet https://t.co/47wM3IP7uX

— PuckPedia (@PuckPedia) July 5, 2025​

Another feather in the cap for the captain as Gabe Landeskog and his return depicted in the documentary “A Clean Sheet” is recognition from the ESPY awards nominating him as best comeback athlete.

Gabe Landeskog is nominated for an ESPY!

Stream "A Clean Sheet: Gabe Landeskog" on max to watch the journey, then head to the #ESPYS to cast your vote for his unforgettable return: https://t.co/SetbFTQUz8 pic.twitter.com/aa8tAW8we8

— Fresh Tape Media (@freshtapemedia) July 3, 2025​

One more contract was finalized over the holiday weekend and it’s for a player who will most likely have a greater impact on the Colorado Eagles. Alex Barre-Boulet inked a one-year two-way deal which will reportedly pay him the $775k league minimum at the NHL level but that’s not far off from the $525k he will earn in the AHL. As a small speedy scorer Barre-Boulet fits the mold of AHL star and indicated a replacement for Eagles leading scorer Matthew Phillips, who signed a deal with San Diego.

We’ve signed Alex Barré-Boulet to a one-year, two-way deal. pic.twitter.com/2ij5WXFfop

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) July 4, 2025​

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...ning-flurries-landeskog-nominated-for-an-espy

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Colorado Eagles have a new head coach

Photo by Ben Jackson/NHLI via Getty Images

Mark Letestu arrives from the Columbus Blue Jackets organization.

A major transaction occurred over the holiday weekend for the Colorado Eagles and that was a hire of their new head coach. To no one’s surprise, the Colorado Avalanche organization looked to their friends over at the Columbus Blue Jackets and nabbed their AHL assistant coach Mark Letestu for the promotion to bench boss in Loveland.

Ohio Colorado

Welcome to #EaglesCountry Mark! pic.twitter.com/aiLFW4fPJI

— Colorado Eagles (@ColoradoEagles) July 5, 2025​

Letestu was a center who enjoyed an 11-year NHL career in which he amassed 567 games played at the highest level with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Columbus Blue Jackets, Edmonton Oilers and Winnipeg Jets. Though he began his pro career in the Penguins organization, Letestu put down roots with Columbus and served as an assistant coach for the AHL’s Cleveland Monsters for the last four seasons.

Photo by Jamie Sabau/NHLI via Getty Images

The Colorado Eagles are no stranger to change as head coach Greg Cronin departed for the NHL two years ago. Now with Aaron Schneekloth in Seattle it is time for Letestu to leave his mark on the organization. The Eagles enjoyed their best regular season to date in the AHL but are still searching for the answer to more playoff success. The Monsters has similar results with Letestu as they went as far as to the third round of the playoffs in 2023-24.

Coincidentally, or not, Letestu would be familiar with new Avalanche prospect Gavin Brindley, who played for the Monsters last season. He was underutilized and only scored 17 points in 52 games so hopefully both come up with a plan to find a bit more success in Colorado.

Welcome to Eagles Country, Mark!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025/7/8/24462650/colorado-eagles-have-a-new-head-coach-mark-letestu

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Morning Flurries: Dave Hakstol appointed new assistant coach

Photo by Christopher Mast/NHLI via Getty Images

Also, just how rich is the Kroenke empire?

It’s the time of the offseason to fill out organizational vacancies and the Colorado Avalanche completed a big piece of business in filling out their vacancy at assistant coach with the hiring of Dave Hakstol.

Details https://t.co/rurP7OCnOK

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) July 8, 2025​

Hakstol has a long NHL resume, most recently as the head coach of the Seattle Kraken from 2021-2024 and in 2023 he was a Jack Adams award finalist for coach of the year when Seattle ousted the defending Stanley Cup champion Avalanche in the first round. The 56-year-old was also the bench boss of the Philadelphia Flyers from 2015-2018. In between head coaching gigs Hakstol was an assistant coach for the Toronto Maple Leafs from 2019-2021.

Clearly Hakstol brings a wealth of coaching experience, which might inspire some fresh ideas or a little urgency among the existing coaching staff. Haksol’s power play results haven’t been the brightest with him at the helm but Toronto’s top six finish in 2021 especially with their offensive firepower might be a source of inspiration.

There has been another change for the Avalanche as Skills Coach Toby Petersen was hired by the Texas Stars as the head coach of the Dallas Stars’ AHL affiliate. Petersen was part of the Avalanche organization for two seasons and helped the players with many tasks such as injury recovery as well as skill development. Good luck in Texas, Toby!

The @DallasStars have appointed Toby Petersen Head Coach of the Texas Stars. Travis Morin, Max Fortunus, Ryan Daniels, and Josh Johnson will return to the team and join Petersen's coaching staff.

Join us in welcoming Toby back to Cedar Park!

More: https://t.co/hODBUy0kik pic.twitter.com/vtgKuDJ619

— Texas Stars (@TexasStars) July 7, 2025​

And finally, CNBC released a report on the most valuable sports enterprises and Kroenke Sports and Entertainment tops the list, valued at over $21 Billion.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...es-dave-hakstol-appointed-new-assistant-coach

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Can the Eagles replicate their success from last season?

Ashley Potts/Colorado Eagles

The Colorado Eagles success hinges on what the Avalanche decide on their fourth line.

The Colorado Avalanche’s fourth line is currently quite uninspiring. The Avalanche have $4.12 million left in cap space and do not have a legitimate fourth line at the moment. This could be a major problem for their AHL affiliate, the Colorado Eagles, if they cannot fill those gaps. As in terms of the salary cap, every player on the fourth line could be less than one million cap hit, but the talent at the NHL level will not be there. This also leads to another question: can the Eagles replicate their success from last season?

The Avalanche have yet to fill the role of the fourth line for the 2025–25 season. This could lead to opportunities for two-way contract forwards to make a statement in the NHL. T.J. Tynan could have a chance for an extended call up with the Avalanche to start the season. He will start his 14th season as a pro and has 642 points in the AHL in 693 games. He appeared in nine games for the Avalanche last season, tallying only one assist. Nikita Prishchepov played 10 games for the Avalanche last season with no points. His rookie season fared much better with the Eagles as he racked up 23 points in 51 games. Ivan Ivan saw the most time of the three here with the Avalanche, playing 40 games. They sent him down to rebuild his confidence and rediscover his form, yet he only managed 12 points in 36 games thereafter.

That was nifty Nikita Prishchepov.@ColoradoEagles | #HSKvsCOL pic.twitter.com/p1apFQ1fXK

— American Hockey League (@TheAHL) April 12, 2025

These three players would provide a mix of grit and speed to the fourth line along with a veteran presence from Tynan. Prishchepov is a heavy body that crashes the net and stays on the puck when he gets hit himself.

Could the Eagles replicate their success from last season? It depends on how long those three stay with the Avalanche. Tynan was fourth on the Eagles in overall points last season. His 41 assists became vital to the playmaking ability of the top line and the power play. Prishchepov provided that body on the ice that you always needed to look out for when you got the puck. He was going to hit you if you touched it. His Parker Kelly style of hockey became important later in the season for the boys in blue. Ivan was always a threat at the faceoff dot and could push the play forward, leading to play outside of his zone.

This is what happens when fans do the wave. Ivan Ivan scores his first of the playoffs with help from Bryan Yoon (second of the night). #Avs #GoAvsGo #EaglesCountry @HockeyMtnHighCO pic.twitter.com/059zg4YU6i

— Brennan Vogt (@brennan_vogt) May 19, 2025

If you couple the absence of the three for the Eagles and new head coach Mark Letestu, it could be a rough start. There is always an adjustment period for any coach taking over a new team. He will bring more of an offensive mindset to the Eagles game as a former center where Aaron Schneekloth brought a defensive mindset as a former defenseman.

TJ Tynan converts on the PP for his second of the night and his third point tonight. Innala and Megna on the assists. #Avs #GoAvsGo #EaglesCountry @MileHighHockey pic.twitter.com/q7xRg7y2pB

— Brennan Vogt (@brennan_vogt) December 14, 2024

So the start of the season could be a little rough for the Eagles, especially with the Avalanche set to start on LTIR…again with Logan O’Connor’s expected absence. The series of call-ups could be harmful to start the season, but ultimately benefit Prishchepov and Ivan in the long run with more NHL experience. The Eagles will suffer with the call-ups and the Letestu will learn how the Avalanche operate quickly. So do not set the bar very high at the start of the season, Eagles’ fans. The ride could be bumpy.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...ir-success-from-last-season-and-make-playoffs

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Avalanche extend Josh Manson through 2027-28

Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images

The Avalanche future blue line is looking clearer.

One of the Colorado Avalanche’s most recognizable defensive stalwarts is staying in Denver.

Josh Manson signed a two-year contract extension with the Avalanche Thursday, securing his services through the 2027-28 NHL season, barring a future trade that he approves. The new deal carries an average annual value of $3.95 million, which is a slight discount from his current $4.5 million price tag.

The #GoAvsGo signed 33 y/o D Josh Manson to a 2 year $3.95M Cap Hit extension

12 team NTC year 1, 10 team NTC year 2

Rep’d by Ross Gurney RWGhttps://t.co/XPIQFZSWON

— PuckPedia (@PuckPedia) July 11, 2025​

However, injuries have been an issue for Manson over the past few years The 33-year-old was limited to 48 games last season due to a series of upper and lower-body ailments. But when he’s not on the sidelines, he’s been one of Colorado’s most dependable and productive blueliners outside of Cale Makar and Devon Toews. His physicality and his pivotal offensive surges has been a cornerstone of the Avalanche defense since being acquired from the Anaheim Ducks more than three years ago.

“Josh has been an integral part of our blue line since joining the team during our 2022 playoff push,” said General Manager Chris MacFarland in a statement. “He’s a rugged, reliable defender who contributes offensively in key moments. Beyond that, he brings invaluable veteran leadership to our locker room. We’re thrilled to have him with us for another three seasons.”

Despite missing a substantial portion of the regular season, Manson remained unwavering in his commitment to return to the ice. His perseverance and self-belief were rewarded when he appeared in all seven games of Colorado’s first-round playoff series against the Dallas Stars. He recorded three points during the series, including goals in each of the final two contests—demonstrating that his trademark resilience and competitive edge remain firmly intact.

Josh Manson, extended 2x$4M by COL, is a physical veteran defence-first defenceman. #GoAvsGo pic.twitter.com/2VTNFv7vMG

— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) July 10, 2025​

Manson’s defining moment came during Colorado’s 2022 Stanley Cup championship run, where he posted career highs in goals (3), assists (5), and points (8) across 20 postseason games—cementing his value as a playoff performer.

Though now older, the 6-foot-3, 218-pound blueliner remains a physical force, registering 443 hits since joining the Avalanche—more than any other player on the roster during that span. When healthy, he continues to be a difference-maker. With his extension now in place—and the recent addition of 2016-17 Norris Trophy winner Brent Burns—Colorado’s blue line projects to be tougher, deeper, and more intimidating heading into next season.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...-avalanche-extend-josh-manson-through-2027-28

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

MHH Roundtable: Summer Checklist

Photo by Ashley Potts/NHLI via Getty Images

Examining where the Colorado Avalanche stand in early summer.

It’s been an unusual start to the 2025-26 league year as teams weren’t largely finished shaping their rosters by the July 4th holiday. Most teams were able to retain their free agents, and as a result, there have been fewer options on the market. The Colorado Avalanche were never big spenders on July 1st, but have more questions than they typically do at this juncture. Here is how we assess the organization's standing early this summer.

What has been the best move made thus far by Colorado this offseason?​

Adrian: Not a lot in terms of splash moves this offseason thus far, but I am impressed that the Avalanche front office was able to unload the Miles Wood contract despite his term and ongoing back issues. That, in tandem with trading Charlie Coyle, has put the Avalanche in a position to spend money more equitably and fill out the roster on a more balanced basis. I wonder who they plan on paying, considering not much was spent on July 1st.

Jackie: Getting rid of Wood without much pain was a welcome development but the other shoe hasn’t dropped in regards to where the extra cap space is going to fill out the third line. It has been pretty quiet thus far and we know the team isn’t done, so it’s a cautious evaluation. Signing Brent Burns for a year was also a creative addition to the blueline.

Jess: To echo Adrian’s and Jackie’s sentiments, the Coyle and Wood move is the best move so far this offseason, in my opinion. It was an excellent piece of business to clear out some cap room and get out from under those two contracts at once. As Jackie alluded to, we know they’re likely not done quite yet as they haven’t used that cap space quite yet, but there is still plenty of time left this summer and before the season starts for them to fill out their roster.

What roster holes remain, and how important is it to get them filled?​

Adrian: I still think the Avalanche have some work to do in their bottom six with Logan O’Connor slated for a long recovery early on in the season. Adding Brent Burns helps fill that 6-7D slot, but I’d like to see the Avalanche shake up the back end with an accurate 4D. I agree with Jackie, who on numerous occasions has mentioned that Josh Manson doesn’t feel like a second-pair guy any longer.

Ezra: They have to add a third line forward and a left handed defenseman. They are short one NHL caliber option at both those positions right now. There are a few free agents available I suspect they’d sign today, but MacFarland’s press conferences have indicated they’re working on a trade as a first priority - most likely for that LHD, as the free agent options on the back end are not as enticing as the forwards.

Jackie: The third line seems pretty barren and at minimum the Avalanche have to replace Charlie Coyle at center and Joel Kiviranta at wing (don’t just bring him back). Contenders have real depth through the third line so these should not be throw-away positions. A left handed defenseman also seems a priority, though Brent Burns will probably get a fair amount of time on ice so there probably isn’t the role and money available for a true top four add. Still, I refuse to believe that Sam Malinski-Josh Manson is Colorado’s idea for the bottom pair so some addition (and subtraction) seems likely to round out the defense core.

Jess: The top priority to me is the third line; it’s pretty barren, and some work needs to be done to replace Coyle and Kiviranta at the very least, as Jackie said. From there, I’m with Adrian and Ezra, their defense needs some work, aside from the top pairing of Makar and Toews, and there’s plenty of time to work on those before the season starts.

Are there any concerns with Martin Nečas’ contract situation at this point?​

Adrian: I’m concerned, for sure, as it’s pretty well known that Necas’ negotiations with Carolina were pretty contentious before the Marty Party rolled into Mile High. Moreover, I imagine Necas realizes career-high regular season numbers this coming season, but his real proving ground comes on a playoff sheet. He is going to bet on himself, but the deadline will be awkward either way. To me, Colorado will be forced to pay a premium ahead of the deadline, trade him, or risk seeing him walk for nothing but cap space. That would effectively and ultimately make the Mikko trade an L.

Ezra: I’m not concerned at all, in that I’m pretty comfortable with them trading him if he won’t sign a good value extension. I think it’s good business for them to see how he does in Colorado with a full camp before committing big money and term, so the way I see it if they take some time and then extend him that’s great OR if they take some time and then trade him mid season for an upgrade elsewhere that is also great. Nathan MacKinnon will elevate whoever is on his wing — if it’s not Necas, they just need to find his Bryan Rust.

Jackie: Without loyalty or championship feelings to fall back on this relationship is already pretty transactional to begin with. If there already isn’t common ground on a deal it’s going to be pretty tough to find any in the future especially with contracts getting more expensive by the minute. I don’t see the Nečas situation going unresolved past the summer and the Avalanche have yet to build a third line or find a non-replacement level left handed defenseman. So, these things may not be a coincidence. Nečas holds a fair amount of trade value, though he’s rapidly approaching rental status, but continuing to degrade the top talent on the roster because of contract issues isn’t going to help Colorado keep up in the West.

Jess: I’m not really all that concerned personally, whatever happens happens. I do think that these two sides can get something done if they sit down and communicate in negotiations like adults (which might be easier said than done), but if he won’t sign a good-value extension and wants Leon Draisaitl money, for example, I’m perfectly fine with trading him if that’s the case. As Jackie said, though, you also can’t keep trading away top talent and expect to keep up in the West, especially given the arms race, for lack of a better term, that’s happened recently with top Western Conference teams loading up with talent to compete, which is why my preference would be for them to sign him, with that being said.

What is your take on the Brent Burns signing, and how will he fit in the lineup?​

Jackie: I am definitely favor inking Burns instead of whatever the contract offer to Ryan Lindgren was. It’s a sneaky, yet legal, way to pay $4M for the position but have the option to push most of his salary to next season if needed. Still, it’s a short-term solution and I’d generally prefer to see the top four defense core more solidified. But for one year Burns might bring some swagger back to the team and entertainment the in-house content team can’t deny.

Adrian: It’s all about the price tag to me, and for $1M and incentives, I say it's a quality add to the back end. The structure of the contract is such that Burns will be rewarded for staying healthy and contributing, which I appreciate. Burns has quite a ceiling as a likely HOFer and is still hunting for his first Cup, so his perspective should breathe life into the locker room as well.

Ezra: I’m a big Burns fan, and he may not be the guy he was ten years ago but if he’s the guy he was last year it’s an upgrade on Josh Manson at 2RD. He’s an excellent PK guy despite his more offense-centric reputation, and in Carolina he played a shutdown role against top competition at even strength -- his length and IQ will be a nice boost to the Avs blue line on their own, and I think this is a precursor to a move for a sturdier fit on the left side with either Manson or Malinski on the way out. Hopefully Manson because I don’t want this team getting any older.

Jess: I’m not a big Burns fan or anything personally, but I like the signing quite a bit, especially knowing what other defenseman who play a similar style, like Lindgren, got in free agency. The age and decline are a concern, sure, but similarly to Lindgren, I really think Burns will be perfectly fine in a much more sheltered role than where he was playing in the lineup in Carolina.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025/7/12/24461704/mhh-roundtable-colorado-avalanche-summer-checklist

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Morning Flurries: Details in new CBA explained

Photo by Mathew Tsang/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Plus, the Florida Panthers’ day with the Stanley Cup are underway.

It was a momentous day when the NHL and NHLPA announced they had come to terms on a new four-year Collective Bargaining Agreement and it has since been ratified by a player vote. The full Memo of Understanding has now been released and PuckPedia gathered the important changes together in an easy to understand recap.

We summarized key changes in the new CBA, including:

-New Min Salaries & Max ELC Comp
-Qualifying Offers
-Post deadline 4-recall rule
-Roster Emergency Exceptions (leads to cap charge next season)
-Perf Bonus Eligibility
-Double Retention

Details:https://t.co/JDOnlOQRZK

— PuckPedia (@PuckPedia) July 11, 2025​

The Seattle Kraken provided a nice feature on their new assistant coach, Aaron Schneekloth and his long journey to a job behind an NHL bench.

New @SeattleKraken assistant Aaron Schneekloth has finally arrived at the @NHL level after nearly a quarter century as a player and coach, including 19 seasons with the @ColoradoEagles.

: @geoffbakernhl | https://t.co/ssbhug7osH pic.twitter.com/Q510hE0T8N

— American Hockey League (@TheAHL) July 13, 2025​

Etched in history. pic.twitter.com/PtVuBTB2x2

— Florida Panthers (@FlaPanthers) July 12, 2025​

With the Stanley Cup now etched with its second group of champion Florida Panthers, it’s time for the individual Cup days to begin. Former Colorado Avalanche AJ Greer brings the glistening trophy home to Quebec, as he is the only player on the team from the Canadian province.

A.J. Greer of the @FlaPanthers is using his day with the @StanleyCup and his youth summer camp to benefit charities https://t.co/uVD9BpFCPI

— NHL.com (@NHLdotcom) July 13, 2025​

Unfortunately it sounds like the NHL owners have voted against a draft format that doesn’t favor the players, media or fans again.

Reporting on this only because I’m a bit surprised by the outcome. Expect the NHL to give the Decentralized Draft model another try next year. Strong majority of GM’s voted in favour of the new status quo with some potential production tweaks to move the 1st round along.

— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) July 12, 2025​

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...morning-flurries-details-in-new-cba-explained

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Colorado Avalanche Top 25 Under 25: #8 Danil Gushchin

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: Danil Gushchin

Age: 23

Position: LW/RW

Height: 5’8”

Weight: 173 lbs.

Likely 2025-26 Team: Colorado Eagles

2024 Rank: N/A

Final Rank: #8 (swap with Oskar Olausson)

High Rank: #6 (Adrian)

Low Rank: #10 (Ezra)

2024-25 Statistics:

San Jose Sharks – 12 GP: 0G, 1A, 1P

San Jose Barracuda – 56 GP: 28G, 23A, 51P (Playoffs – 4GP: 1G, 0A, 1P)

Danil Gushchin, was acquired by the Colorado Avalanche just a month ago in a flip of young wingers with the San Jose Sharks. He was a former 2020 third round pick by the Sharks who played who played out his three-year Entry Level Contract with the organization before getting moved. Gushchin slips into the eighth spot on our list by default to replace outgoing Oskar Olausson. Given Olausson’s struggles at the AHL level (26 points in 61 games last season), Gushchin may actually have ended up higher on the list had our panel been voting on him instead.

That said, Gushchin definitely has a lower ceiling than the former first round pick he is replacing. Due to his large frame and deadly shot, Olausson intrigued as a possible top six option whose offense could paper over the holes in his defensive game and a lack of intensity in his overall play. Gushchin is essentially the opposite player: A speedy, small playmaking forward who backchecks and defends with a grit that could earn him a look as a penalty kill/fourth line option in the NHL like most AHL veterans.

The size is a big drawback, as he simply doesn’t have the length or strength that are the hallmark of typical defensive forwards, but he makes up for it with a consistent motor and strong positioning. On top of that, Gushchin has found a way to contribute offense consistently at the AHL level, posting nearly a point per game over the last two seasons after scoring 45 points in 67 games in his first full season with the Barracuda. A large role on the power play certainly bolstered this production, though, with 28 of his 51 points in 2024-25 coming on the man advantage, contrast that with Olausson’s four power play points in the same season.

Unfortunately, that offense did not translate to the NHL for the 23-year-old Russian with the Sharks, who gave him only 18 games over three seasons in which he accumulated just five points. With a better Colorado team that features more capable bottom six forwards than those bottom-feeding Sharks team there is a chance Gushchin could find more offense if he earns a roster spot with his defense, but he most likely fits best on the Eagles as a replacement for the offense Matthew Phillips took with him to the San Diego Gulls. But, Gushchin will have to clear waivers to get to Loveland first.

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

#16 Francesco Dell’Elce

#15 Cooper Gay

#14 Christian Humphreys

#13 Tory Pitner

#12 Taylor Makar

#11 Zakhar Bardakov

#10 Chase Bradley

#9 Matt Stienburg

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...do-avalanche-top-25-under-25-8-danil-gushchin

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Avalanche ink depth forward Victor Olofsson

As training camp is fast approaching, the Colorado Avalanche continue to chip away at building their roster for the upcoming 2025-26 season. Just over a week after bringing back Joel Kiviranta on a one-year deal, the organization has inked another depth forward. This time a new face to the organization, left wing Victor Olofsson has joined the Avalanche for the sum of $1.575 million on a one-year contract.

The #GoAvsGo are signing 30 y/o UFA F Victor Olofsson to 1 year $1.575M Contract.

15G 29P in 56 GP

Rep'd by Claude Lemieux @4sportshockey https://t.co/NRqSR7yjnX

— PuckPedia (@PuckPedia) August 20, 2025

Avalanche fans may be familiar with Freddy Olofsson from a couple years ago but Victor is more of a scorer with career highs of 28 goals and 49 points with the Buffalo Sabres. That performance earned him a two-year $9.5 million dollar contract which Olofsson didn’t quite live up to and he subsequently spent last season with the Vegas Golden Knights on a one-year contract. There he had a good season scoring 15 goals and 29 points whilst rehabbing his defensive game.


This signing reminds of another late summer transaction from a couple years ago when the Avalanche invested a $1.5 million dollar contract on scoring left wing Tomas Tatar. Obviously the hope is Olofsson is a better fit on the team but it’s a low-risk investment and one that could still yield an asset if it doesn’t work out. Olofsson’s best attribute is his shot, in particular a one timer from the right side as a left shot, which Colorado might have a need for on the first power play unit. Olofsson will have to prove his defensive game and forecheck intensity has improved to earn the trust of Jared Bednar to play above a depth role.

Comitting cap space and roster spots on rounding out the roster does put the Avalanche 2025-26 squad in clearer focus. But there’s still $2-3M in left in the budget for another add if GM Chris MacFarland finds someone to his liking. There’s still the issue of Martin Nečas and what to do about a contract extension and his future with the organization but there’s still a month until camp for some decisions to be made.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/nhl-free-agency/57353/avalanche-ink-depth-forward-victor-olofsson

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Colorado Avalanche Top 25 Under 25: #12 Taylor Makar

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: Taylor Makar

Age: 24

Position: Left Wing

Height: 6’ 4”

Weight: 209 lbs

Likely 2025-26 Team: Colorado Eagles

2024 Rank: #24

Final Rank: #12

High Rank: #11 (Jess & Ezra)

Low Rank: #13 (Jackie)

2024-25 Statistics:

• University of Maine (38 GP, 18 G, 12 A)
• Colorado Eagles (5 GP, 1 G, 0 A)

Taylor Makar remains a very intriguing prospect in Colorado’s pipeline. Selected by the Avalanche in the seventh round of the 2021 NHL draft at 220th overall, the expectation always was that Makar was a long-term project and a long-shot prospect. But under the guidance of his family and the organization’s very keen familiarity with the family could only help Taylor in the long run.

The left shot forward began his college career at the University of Massachusetts Amherst back during the 2021-22 season. During his time at UMass, Makar had some solid seasons, but his stats were not world-ending by any means with a career high of 12 points. Makar then transferred to the University of Maine for his senior season, where he really found his footing, putting up a 30-point season for the Black Bears before signing his Entry Level Contract and joining the Eagles for the end of their season. There he got just a taste of pro hockey as he scored a goal for them in his five-game showing.

In his season with the Black Bears, Makar certainly found his offensive touch, while rounding out his game. Makar is big for a forward, standing at 6-foot-four and that size could allow him to be used as a power forward at the next level.


If Makar able to continue to use his size in game situations, like being a screen in front of the net, for example, while effectively developing his offensive and defensive games, that would certainly go a long way in furthering the possibility of him playing NHL games one day. The thought of having the Makar brothers play together for the Avalanche one day has always been a fun idea, but given Taylor’s jump in development this past season, it’s looking like more of a realistic possibility than ever and for that reason he also takes a jump on our list to number 12.

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

#16 Francesco Dell’Elce

#15 Cooper Gay

#14 Christian Humphreys

#13 Tory Pitner

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...ado-avalanche-top-25-under-25-12-taylor-makar

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Colorado Avalanche Top 25 Under 25: #11 Zakhar Bardakov

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: Zakhar Bardakov

Age: 24

Position: Center

Height: 6’ 2”

Weight: 198 lbs

Likely 2025-26 Team: Colorado Avalanche/Eagles

2024 Rank: #23

Final Rank: #11

High Rank: #7 (Jackie & Ezra)

Low Rank: #15 (Jess)

2024-25 Statistics:

St. Petersburg SKA (KHL): 53GP, 17 G, 18 A, 35 P


The first in our prospect rankings with truly legitimate shot at the opening night Avalanche roster, Russian center Zakhar Bardakov crossed the pond to North America this summer after several seasons with SKA St. Petersburg spent honing a forechecking and defense-oriented game that could translate well to a bottom-six role in Jared Bednar’s lineup. With an obvious need for a defensive center given the roster’s current construction, Bardakov is likely to have every opportunity to earn an NHL job off the bat.

Bardakov was acquired seemingly as a thrown in contract to make the math work on the trade that sent Kurtis MacDermid to New Jersey for a fourth round pick, but quickly gained hype as a prospect by flashing speed and grit in all three zones for a good SKA team as he increased his production to 35 points including 15 goals with a bigger role last season. His faceoff acumen drew particular notice, as Colorado routinely lacks the strength at the dot that he could offer if his work in the KHL translates to NHL draws.

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Most overage prospects in the Avalanche system are expected to spend time in the AHL before getting serious consideration for NHL work, but Bardakov’s contract with Colorado includes a clause allowing him to return to the KHL if he ends up in the minors, per an interview with RG Hockey, saying:

“A couple of games in the minors is fine, but if you’re asking if I’m ready to spend years fighting through the AHL, my answer is probably no. Colorado sees me as a two-way, third-line forward who can play on the penalty kill. We’ll see how it works out. I’m ready to compete—I always started in the third or fourth line at SKA every season. I’ll fight for my spot.”

Hopefully for all parties involved, Bardakov can earn a fourth line role out of camp and his out clause never becomes an issue. To excel in the bottom six, he’ll need to chip in some points while making himself a nuisance on the forecheck and in board battles.

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

#16 Francesco Dell’Elce

#15 Cooper Gay

#14 Christian Humphreys

#13 Tory Pitner

#12 Taylor Makar

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...-avalanche-top-25-under-25-11-zakhar-bardakov

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Is the Ryan Johansen Fiasco Officially Over?

Good riddance.

The Colorado Avalanche have faced sustained criticism in recent seasons for executing unpopular trades—moves such as the departures of Mikko Rantanen and Bowen Byram stand out. However, the trade of Ryan Johansen definitely carries some mixed feelings.

In March 2024, the Philadelphia Flyers acquired Ryan Johansen from the Colorado Avalanche, along with a first-round draft pick, in exchange for defenseman Sean Walker. Yet the transaction quickly unraveled. After the Flyers attempted to assign Johansen to their AHL affiliate, he professed an injury and refused to report, effectively sidelining himself for the remainder of the season. Philadelphia subsequently terminated his contract over the summer, contending that Johansen’s claimed injury was insincere—a claim bolstered by the fact that he had played every single game for the Avalanche that season. Johansen also had scored twice against the Vancouver Canucks in a 3‑1 Avalanche victory a week prior to the transaction as well.

Complicating matters further, Johansen, whose tenure with prior teammates had reportedly been strained, filed a grievance against the Flyers, challenging the contract termination in court. The arbitrator ultimately ruled against him, leaving Johansen not only without millions in expected earnings but also with a professional future rendered increasingly uncertain.

The #Flyers are officially off the hook regarding Ryan Johansen's contract: https://t.co/LDHxV6qrMd

— Pro Hockey Rumors (@prohockeyrumors) August 13, 2025

A month after acquiring Ryan Johansen, Flyers general manager Daniel Brière told Philly Hockey Now that he did not expect the veteran forward to play a single game for the club.

“All I can tell you is I don’t expect him to be back,” Brière said. “I don’t know exactly the situation. We’re dealing with him on the medical side. The thing for him is getting him back to be able to play at this time. He doesn’t think he can play hockey. I wish I had a better answer for you. We need to get him better to figure out if there’s even a remote chance of him dressing for the organization.”

Some critics have framed the episode as a failure of the Avalanche front office—if, of course, one accepts the prevailing narrative at face value. For context, Johansen was on the ice for morning skate the very day he was traded, showing no outward signs of injury. Interpret that as you will.

The sting for Colorado was compounded by the fact that the deal required surrendering a first-round draft pick for what amounted to a rental—a move that eventually set the stage for the Byram-for-Mittelstadt trade, a transaction that landed with all the grace of Carey Hart at the 2001 X Games. Had the Avalanche tried to waive Johansen would he have claimed injury then just the same?

In retrospect, if Johansen’s saga in Philadelphia truly stemmed from resistance to an AHL demotion, there is little reason to believe Colorado would have fared any better had they attempted the same maneuver. It was an unfortunate and messy chapter, but one the organization is now free from. As for whether the Avalanche have continued to make questionable trades—regrettably, yes. But a new season brings new possibilities, and perhaps even, for the optimists among us, a reason to hope.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...s-the-ryan-johansen-fiasco-is-officially-over

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Why your favorite NHL team won’t win the Stanley Cup – Part One

This time of year, most fanbases begin to drink the Kool-Aid again and believe that the fortunes of the hockey will grace their fabled team. You should be hearing, “This is our year,” at your local pourhouse, but I promise you it’s not. Your team won’t win the Stanley Cup. You know how I know?

1. Boston Bruins

The Bruins are among the most fabled hockey franchises in the history of the game, but right now they look like a department store at your local mall. Nothing is organized, and all of the glitz and glam of the retail experience of yesteryear now only exists in the form of a cheaply branded Pasta cologne. Zdeno Chara is out there running marathons, meanwhile, his former B’s are losing their identity faster than a 16-year-old ordering knockoff leggings on Temu.

Not to be dramatic but not giving Marchand, your captain and leader, what he rightfully earned and then trading him to a juggernaut team in the same division might be pound for pound the worst managerial decision in the history of sports. It actually might be

— Rob Gucci (@heatdaddy69420) June 30, 2025

2. Buffalo Sabres

Let’s be real here. Buffalo isn’t winning because, well, they are the Buffalo Sabres. From the league’s longest-running playoff drought to Stanley Cup Champions? I’d rather take my chances on the lottery than put any stake in the game for this infamous club. Tage Thompson hums the tune of a one-hit-wonder, and the rest of the group presents itself as a feeder team to genuine contenders.

3. Carolina Hurricanes

The Hurricanes are one of those teams that give their fans just enough to pay too much for the tickets, but not enough to be considered anything more than a scheduled elimination. The most remarkable thing they have done over the last five years is offer a sheet to a guy who still has yet to get them over the hump. But hey, at least Rod Brind’Amour can bench press a lot. Mikko Rantanen took one look at what you all had going on and turned into a complete villain, using you as a place to crash before heading to Dallas to carry out his evil plan. Carolina won’t win cause they are a ‘sum of their parts’ team, but the math doesn’t add up to real success.

"Now we have a locker room full of people who all want to be here"
Before the game, Carolina Hurricanes General Manager Eric Tulsky had a very long interview with Hanna Yates and Shane Willis, going over the Mikko Rantanen trade, the new guys brought in, and more#RaiseUp #NHL pic.twitter.com/ZSamGsR7Vi

— Queen of the Puck (@rbarkleyhockey) March 9, 2025

4. Columbus Blue Jackets

Remember when the Blue Jackets shocked the world and swept the President’s Trophy-winning Tampa Bay Lightning? Yeah, that was in 2019, and your team won’t win the Cup ‘cause they don’t play the stingy forecheck game anymore. Adam Fantilli was a great draft pick, but he won’t single-handedly propel a team to a playoff appearance in his third season, and the rest of the group has a lot to prove.

5. Detroit Red Wings

Agh, how the mighty have fallen. I guess the Red Wings don’t wanna join the Avalanche in ushering in a new era of success. They’d rather slap on the leg warmers and inlines, throw on the walkman, and glide on glory that was realized a lifetime ago. You won’t win the cup because you’re team is a shadow of what used to be a dominant and storied franchise. No real substance outside of J.T. Compher, who you are paying way too much for. Paying too much is your thing, though, in that fancy new arena! I liked The Joe.

The @DetroitRedWings are raising Sergei Fedorov's No. 91 to the rafters! pic.twitter.com/84tr0IwMWA

— NHL (@NHL) August 19, 2025

6. Florida Panthers

You did it, y’all are repeat champions, and you managed to keep all of your best players. Just one problem, they all just got a year older, and you’ve officially ventured out of the goldilocks zone and are too close to the sun to recognize yourself. The saying goes: The bigger they are, the harder they fall. Just look at your neighbors in the Lightning, still have Kucherov, still have Vasilevsky, and yet, they can’t seem to weaponize a clear cap advantage anymore. Plus, rats are gross, so no threepeat.

7. Montreal Canadiens

The Habs won’t win because their fanbase tends to overhype and overexpect, which often leads to turnover in coaching and management. Kent Hughes isn’t going to lawyer his way into a winning franchise this season, but I think the Habs will end the Canadian Cup drought — like 2o-years from now. It’s only right, seeing as you traded away the Babe Ruth of hockey goalies because you went ahead and hired a coach that you knew didn’t get along with him. Swing and a miss!

“It’s happening. It’s a matter of time and when, don’t know. But, it’s going to happen.”

Pierre Turgeon knew Patrick Roy and the Canadiens were a ticking time bomb because he would drive to the rink with Roy and hear about it every day. https://t.co/HwThG4L7b6 pic.twitter.com/dHkCrpHBrj

— Spittin' Chiclets (@spittinchiclets) August 12, 2025

8. New Jersey Devils

Speaking of former glory, the Devils have a little bit of that. They would have had more if they hadn’t run into Joe Sakic and the boys, but still, it was respectable stuff. You know what’s not respectable? They have only won one playoff series in over ten seasons. It’s not in the cards for the Devils because they haven’t even scratched the surface of a real threat yet. You employ the second and third best Hughes brothers, and I bet you have a better chance of uniting all three of them than hoisting the Stanley Cup in 2026.

9. New York Islanders

Do you all still play hockey? I don’t know because the New York Rangers cast a shadow that you can’t seem to peak out of. The Islanders aren’t gonna win the Stanley Cup because they aren’t even the best team in their state, let alone the league. The Rangers aren’t even that good either. Thanks for taking care of Semyon Varlamov, who might be the best Islander goalie of all time. I don’t know if Islanders management is keen on this, but to win games, you have to score goals. Getting rid of Lou Lamoriello was a first step but that doesn’t give you better players or coaches.

10. New York Rangers

Remember how close it felt for Ranger fans after they lost to their little brother Devils in the playoffs two years ago? Remember how we were told that Igor Shesterkin was the new best goalie in the league? Well, wouldn’t you know it, y’all have officially Carey Price-d yourselves, but with a goalie who isn’t nearly as good. That’s why you won’t win the cup. Maybe you can fill the rest of the roster out by hosting a local tryout and see if another Vince Papali-type story can carry the headlines rather than your lack of success.

Jack Hughes and the New Jersey Devils were criticized for playing "Instagram hockey" in last night's win over the New York Rangers. #NHLNow discusses Hughes' intention on a breakaway attempt against Igor Shesterkin last night. @LGRed | @Rupper17 | @KevinWeekes | #NJDevils pic.twitter.com/IdESMlJVxR

— NHL Network (@NHLNetwork) December 3, 2024

11. Ottawa Senators

The Senators are a hilarious team that somehow convinces themselves and their fanbase that they are the underdog that can. Your best player is an American whom you spent a month booing, and now you’re asking him to lead your team to the promised land? I feel like Brady Thachuk is the next Vegas Golden Knight, and if you asked me to bet on whether they would win the cup, I’d put my whole mortgage on absolutely not. The Sens won’t win the cup because they are microwavable Disney World food, where cup champs embody 5-star dining experiences.

12. Philadelphia Flyers

Always Sunny is one of the greatest entertainment products of all time, and the Eagles gave you all a little glory, but don’t expect either glory or entertainment from the team with the ugliest uniforms in the NHL. You won’t win the cup because, my god, you’re boring and have a serious talent problem. Travis Konecny is your best player, and he’d probably be a second or third liner on any real competitor. Maybe Jalen Hurts can skate?

13. Pittsburgh Penguins

The Penguins won’t win the cup because they refuse to land or retain anything of real value around Sidney Crosby, who isn’t a kid anymore. It’s getting to the point where I feel someone should ask Crosby to blink twice if he’s being held against his will. Does Pitt only have Malkin and Crosby jerseys for sale in your team store, cause who else even plays there? You’re team isn’t even close, but hey, at least you can still hope and pray Crosby retires a Penguin, having won nothing after 2017.

Nathan MacKinnon and Sidney Crosby both pulled up to Brad Marchand’s Nova Scotia Stanley Cup celebration

(via IG/mackinnon29, kasloane) pic.twitter.com/YoErNcWoyQ

— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) July 31, 2025

14. Tampa Bay Lightning

Your team won’t win the cup cause the Colorado Avalanche broke your goalie. The Cat has been chasing a laser pointer ever since the Avs roasted him in the 2022 Stanley Cup Final. His jovial and playful pregame nonsense doesn’t work anymore, and unfortunately, neither does the team in front of him. Somewhere, Jon Cooper is explaining how proud he is of next year’s team as his pristine hockey mind already knows they are doomed. It’s all downhill since you thanked the captain who led you to three straight Stanley Cup appearances by showing him the door. Good luck with that.

15. Toronto Maple Leafs

The Buffalo Sabr… I mean, the Toronto Maple Leafs won’t win the Stanley Cup because the locals are running out of scapegoats, and soon enough they will chase every bit of talent away from the Hockey Meca. It’s as if Jerry Jones secretly runs the Toronto Maple Leafs, given the hype they generate despite owning the league’s longest cupless drought. I know you won’t win the cup cause you haven’t since people had earphones for their television sets and had to twist the knob to switch between 12 different channels.

Longest active droughts in NHL:

Stanley Cups: Toronto Maple Leafs (57 seasons)
Presidents Trophies: Toronto Maple Leafs (61 seasons)
Cup Finals appearances: Toronto Maple Leafs (57 seasons)
Playoff series wins: Buffalo Sabres (18 seasons)
Playoff appearances: Buffalo Sabres (14… pic.twitter.com/Sx4jsEjoez

— Big Head Hockey (@BigHeadHcky) July 28, 2025

16. Washington Capitals

Ovi did it! He’s the greatest goalscorer in the history of the game, but now, you have nothing to play for. You know you aren’t a real contender, and so you see the carrot is gone. You shocked the world last season with an incredibly successful regular season, but shocked no one when you couldn’t prove to be the real deal come playoff time. At least you got that one in 2018 to show for the games’ most prolific goalscorer. I guess. How is Ovi the best goalscorer ever, and still has a lesser career than Sidney Crosby?

There you have it, folks, that’s why your team won’t win. Doctors recommend you take this article with a grain of salt and a dose of humor, as it is meant to be lighthearted and fun. If you are triggered and choose to screenshot or share my comments, please tag me and call me out appropriately!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/nhl-...te-nhl-team-wont-win-the-stanley-cup-part-one

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Colorado Avalanche Top 25 Under 25: #10 Chase Bradley

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: Chase Bradley

Age: 23

Position: Foward (LW/C)

Height: 5’11”

Weight: 181 lbs.

Likely 2025-26 Team: Colorado Eagles

2024 Rank: #20

Final Rank: #10

High Rank: #4 (Jess)

Low Rank: #18 (Jackie)

2024-25 Statistics:

Colorado Avalanche – 2 GP: 0G, 0A, 0P

Colorado Eagles – 62 GP: 14G, 8A, 22P (Playoffs – 9GP: 1G, 0A, 1P)


Coming in at number 10 on this year’s Top 25 Under 25 is forward Chase Bradley. The Colorado Avalanche welcomed the University of Connecticut alum, an intriguing addition. The Detroit Red Wings originally drafted him in the seventh round in 2020, but they never signed him. It came as quite a shock to Avalanche fans when he signed at the start of free agency in July 2024.

Chase Bradley leads an odd man rush and delivers an awesome reverse hit after! Kemp didn't like the hit and decided to drops the gloves. #Avs #GoAvsGo    #EaglesCountry @MileHighHockey pic.twitter.com/I7gCqr5QZk

— Brennan Vogt (@brennan_vogt) November 25, 2024

Bradley stood out right away as he attended Development Camp last summer in Centennial, Colorado. He showed he has great speed and was a standout among all the rookies. What did not show was his grit. Bradley would play 62 games in the regular season for the Colorado Eagles and be consistently on their second and third line scoring 22 points. His pace posed a constant danger to opponents, since he excelled near the net. If Bradley didn’t score, he’d invigorate the team through fighting or tough play.

Chase Bradley has turned into a nice little pickup! He has a nice chip and toe drag here for his 13th of the season! Jacob MacDonald (23) and Bryan Yoon (2) on the helpers. MacDonald had a point taken away last night so…….. he hits 50 points on the season again! #Avs #GoAvsGo… pic.twitter.com/CthUBWvkdv

— Brennan Vogt (@brennan_vogt) March 23, 2025

The St. Louis native made his NHL debut early in the season for the Avalanche on November 27 against the Vegas Golden Knights. Then, Bradley played against the Dallas Stars before the team reassigned him to the Eagles. Bradley stayed upbeat following the demotion, considering it an instructive experience, one that he would forever recall.

It didn't take long for the Eagles to strike back as Chase Bradley nails a backhander for his first of the series. Assisted by Mark Senden (1) and Wyatt Aamodt (2) #Avs #GoAvsGo #EaglesCountry @HockeyMtnHighCO pic.twitter.com/nLdQcJW03M

— Brennan Vogt (@brennan_vogt) May 8, 2025

Bradley is a player who plays with heart and speed. His wrist shot, using the slot when pressured, could also perform well under pressure. Next season, Bradley will be one of many players competing for open spots on the fourth line on the Avalanche roster. Now that he has a year of professional hockey under his belt, his stats will probably improve at the AHL level as he hopes to earn another contract from the Avalanche.

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

#16 Francesco Dell’Elce

#15 Cooper Gay

#14 Christian Humphreys

#13 Tory Pitner

#12 Taylor Makar

#11 Zakhar Bardakov

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...do-avalanche-top-25-under-25-10-chase-bradley

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Grzelcyk Fits The Need, But Not The Budget

The Colorado Avalanche targeting Matt Grzelcyk this late in the offseason would be surprising—mainly because they’re not in a position to target anyone.

While the Avalanche do have a clear need for a left-handed defenseman, the team’s current salary cap situation renders any significant additions improbable. With just over $1.3 million in available cap space, the financial reality is stark. Considering that Grzelcyk earned $2.75 million in his most recent contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins and is coming off a career-best season, expecting him to accept a substantial pay cut is highly unrealistic.

Grzelcyk recorded career highs last season with 39 assists and 40 points. The 31-year-old, selected 85th overall in the third round of the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, also completed his first full 82-game regular season campaign last year. Given these accomplishments, Grzelcyk is likely seeking a more lucrative contract. However, this may partially explain why he remains unsigned. As demonstrated by the recent Joel Kiviranta contract saga, a standout single season does not necessarily translate into substantial financial commitment from teams. Sustained performance is what leads to the bigger paydays. Grzelcyk is not quite there yet, so as we speak, he’s on the outside looking in.

Colorado’s Stanley Cup window remains open. While the team addressed its goaltending concerns—an issue that arguably should never have arisen—the core roster continues to inspire confidence. Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, Marty Nečas (for as long as he remains with the team), and Devon Toews provide a formidable foundation. Additionally, Gabriel Landeskog returns for his first full season in over three years, and his playoff performance demonstrated that he hasn’t quite lost an inch. Brock Nelson, entering his second season with Colorado under a fresh contract, adds further stability and depth, although some would argue there was a solid overpay that came with that. However, for those on the media grind, the 2C stories can mercifully rest for the time being. The team also has a healthy Valeri Nichushkin to look forward to. Perhaps there isn’t room for any significant additions.

Not Much We Can Do, Chief!

Nonetheless, notable gaps remain on the roster, and at present, there is little flexibility to address them. The most viable path to improvement lies through the trade market—a route that, as recent history has shown, has yielded mixed results at best. Should the Avalanche choose to make another all-in push, one can only hope the cost doesn’t once again outweigh the return.

Looking ahead, much of the team’s flexibility hinges on the decision surrounding Nečas. Should he remain unsigned, it’s likely that the Avalanche roster is effectively set heading into the season.

While the addition of a left-handed defenseman like Grzelcyk would certainly bolster the blue line, the harsh reality is that it’s not feasible.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...486/grzelcyk-fits-the-need-but-not-the-budget

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Colorado Avalanche Top 25 Under 25: #9 Matt Stienburg

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: Matt Stienburg

Age: 24

Position: Foward (C)

Height: 6’1”

Weight: 183 lbs.

Likely 2025-26 Team: Colorado Eagles

2024 Rank: #18 Tie

Final Rank: #9

High Rank: #8 (Brennan)

Low Rank: #10 (Jackie, Adrian, Jess)

2024-25 Statistics:

Colorado Avalanche – 8 GP: 0G, 0A, 0P

Colorado Eagles – 5 GP: 1G, 2A, 3P (Playoffs – 3GP: 0G, 0A, 0P)


Coming in at number nine on this year’s Top 25 Under 25 is center Matt Stienburg. The Cornell alum fought off injuries most of the season, but it was what he did on the ice that counted. Stienburg jumped from 18th to ninth this season because of how many games he played with the Colorado Avalanche. The former 2019 third round pick showed everyone what he was capable of and how he could contribute to the team.

With Stienburg getting the call tonight…. let's revist his 1st goal of year. A shorthanded goal with the help of Jayson Megna in game one of the season. #Avs #GoAvsGo    #EaglesCountry @MileHighHockey pic.twitter.com/btCvJy9rTH

— Brennan Vogt (@brennan_vogt) October 16, 2024

Stienburg started the season out impressively with the Colorado Eagles. In the opening game of the season, Stienburg scored a shorthanded goal assisted by Jayson Megna. The following night, had an assist of his own. Stienburg’s early success led to a call-up just five days into the season for the Avalanche. He would make his NHL debut against the Boston Bruins on October 16 and had to make an impact. Halfway through the second period, Stienburg fought former Avalanche defenseman Nikita Zadorov.


The Halifax native has made a name for himself as a gritty player. Eight games into his call-up with the Avalanche, Stienburg cost himself the rest of the season. He ran Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Erik Cernak into the boards. This would cost Stienburg a two-game suspension and a reassignment to the Colorado Eagles. Unfortunately, Stienburg injured his shoulder in the first game back in the AHL, and he was out for the rest of the season.

Matt Stienburg will have a hearing today with the DoPS for this hit on Erik Cernak. #Avs #GoAvsGo       @MileHighHockey pic.twitter.com/wuoWFXBsZq

— Brennan Vogt (@brennan_vogt) October 31, 2024

Fans can probably look forward to the Canadian making a run for the fourth line sometime this season as the Avalanche burned his suspension by rostering him in the playoffs. Coach Jared Bednar has leaned a little more heavily on the grit of the younger players, and Stienburg fits the bill. He is not that fast, but he lets you know if you get too close to the wall anytime he is on the ice. Lately, he does not hesitate to drop the gloves either. His fighting needs a little work, but he has learned in the last year how to be the big kid on the ice.

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

#16 Francesco Dell’Elce

#15 Cooper Gay

#14 Christian Humphreys

#13 Tory Pitner

#12 Taylor Makar

#11 Zakhar Bardakov

#10 Chase Bradley

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...do-avalanche-top-25-under-25-9-matt-stienburg

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

No Rust Here: MacKinnon, Landeskog Look Locked In

Some of the Colorado Avalanche core players were on the ice Monday morning, including Nathan MacKinnon and Gabriel Landeskog, who prepares for his first full season in more than three years.

Logan O’Connor had the ice to himself earlier in the morning. Reports suggest he is progressing faster than expected following his second hip surgery in as many seasons. O’Connor laced up the skates for the first time at the Colorado Avalanche practice facility in Centennial on Tuesday, and Mile High Hockey was on hand.

An analysis of O’Connor’s recent on-ice session reveals that while he remains well short of game readiness, his return to the rink is nevertheless an encouraging sign. The session proceeded at roughly half the intensity of his typical skating pace, with a clear focus on edge work, angles, and transitions. However, his balance appeared compromised, especially when he attempted to skate backwards. Given these observations, it will likely be some time before O’Connor is in any condition to rejoin NHL competition. A conditioning assignment with the Colorado Eagles may prove a prudent step in his eventual return.

LOC taking a few laps. #goavsgo @MileHighHockey pic.twitter.com/NzOI6IwK5Z

— Ryan O'Hara (@OHaraSports) August 25, 2025

EJ Fights For His Career

Erik Johnson enters the upcoming season as an unrestricted free agent, and while he has remained active and committed in his offseason training, a return to the Avalanche appears unlikely. Colorado’s current roster includes a surplus of defensemen and a balanced complement of right-handed blue-liners, making Johnson the likely odd man out. It’s a reality he is almost certainly aware of—yet his demeanor on the ice suggests otherwise. Johnson skated with clear intent and determination, a testament to his enduring professionalism and competitive spirit. While a reunion may not be in the cards, his continued dedication underscores the loyalty and effort he has long brought to the organization. As he has often stated, he is willing to do whatever it takes for this team—and he continues to embody that mindset.

One of the biggest questions entering the offseason was whether Landeskog would be ready to go. Well, Landy answered that question pretty quickly, ripping two wristers that hit nothing but net. Even compared to the Landeskog that we saw during full team practice prior to the first round playoff series against Dallas last season, this version looked fresher and didn’t show any signs of rust. There shouldn’t be any issues there.

MacKinnon enjoyed an eventful offseason—representing his country at the World Championships, celebrating his marriage, spending time with longtime friend Sidney Crosby, and even enduring a playful encounter involving a giant lobster orchestrated by EJ at his wedding. But once MacKinnon returned to the ice, it was clear his focus had shifted fully back to business. Although he did get burned on a few defensive plays, MacKinnon responded with precision, dangles, and scintillating goals.

MacKinnon and Landy working on the fundamentals. @MileHighHockey pic.twitter.com/4yZm8NUJB4

— Ryan O'Hara (@OHaraSports) August 25, 2025

Also participating in the session was Jack Drury, who delivered a composed and solid showing. Newly acquired defenseman Brent Burns joined later in the skate, immediately chopping it up with Landeskog and MacKinnon before seamlessly transitioning into drills. Training camp is now just three weeks away.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/general/57505/no-rust-here-mackinnon-landeskog-look-locked-in

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Colorado Avalanche Top 25 Under 25: #7 Nikita Prishchepov

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: Nikita Prishchepov

Age: 21

Position: Left Wing

Height: 6’1”

Weight: 194 lbs.

Likely 2025-26 Team: Colorado Eagles

2024 Rank: #29th (tie)

Final Rank: #7

High Rank: #6 (Multiple)

Low Rank: #10 (Brennan)

2024-25 Statistics:

Colorado Eagles – 51 GP: 9G, 14A, 23P

Colorado Avalanche – 10 GP: 0G, 0A, 0P


There is no other Colorado Avalanche prospect that experienced the type of giant leap on our list and in perception than left wing Nikita Prishchepov. He went from unranked on last year’s rankings to cracking the top ten in the span of a year. The positioning was defensible at the time as Prishchepov was the ninth pick of Colorado’s 2024 draft class and the Russian was an overager out of the QMJHL, which was his third time through the draft. Considering the career trajectory of the likes of Brandon Saigeon and Jeremy Hanzel experienced it was far from any guarantee the Avalanche would take Prishchepov seriously and receive a contract offer at all.

As such, it was a pleasant surprise to see Prishchepov sign an Entry Level Contract at the end of training camp last year, which allowed him to play pro rather than go back to the junior for an overage season like the aforementioned previous picks. But nobody could have predicted that nearly the last pick in the 2024 draft would play NHL games less than a year removed from the draft and through he didn’t score any points he didn’t look out of place and earned 10 games. Prishchepov was only one of seven from the 2024 draft class to make their NHL debut and the rest were among the top 13 picks. But for all this to have meaning it is imperative that the Avalanche keep investing in him. Ten NHL games at 20 years of age is notable but graduating as the first non-top 10 drafted prospect from the AHL to the NHL in over a decade would be even more impressive.


Prishchepov has the size and type of game that earned him those 10 games in the NHL at an early age, which also makes him a realistic candidate to find a path to sticking at the highest level should he be afforded the opportunity. Nikita speaks to looking up to Val Nichushkin and watching him play there are a lot of similarities to how they approach the game. Prishchepov has the willingness to learn and mentality to become a forecheck monster just like his countryman. If just enough skill can translate a to a punch of scoring the 21-year-old Russian could be a valuable piece to the organization but do the Avalanche agree?

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

#16 Francesco Dell’Elce

#15 Cooper Gay

#14 Christian Humphreys

#13 Tory Pitner

#12 Taylor Makar

#11 Zakhar Bardakov

#10 Chase Bradley

#9 Matt Stienburg

#8 Danil Gushchin

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...valanche-top-25-under-25-7-nikita-prishchepov

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Colorado Avalanche Top 25 Under 25: #6 Trent Miner

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: Trent Miner

Age: 24

Position: Goalie

Height: 6’ 1”

Weight: 185 lbs

Likely 2025-26 Team: Colorado Eagles

2024 Rank: #15

Final Rank: #6

High Rank: #4 (Ryan)

Low Rank: #8 (Ezra & Adrian)

2024-25 Statistics:

• Colorado Eagles (38 GP, 2.12 GAA, .918 SV%, 3 SO)
• Colorado Avalanche (2 GP, 2.62 GAA, .879 SV%, 0 SO)

Trent Miner has continued to grow and develop within the Colorado Avalanche system since he was drafted in 2019, in the 7th round. Since being drafted, Miner has spent most of his time playing with the Colorado Eagles and the Utah Grizzlies before finally earning his first NHL games including a start with the Avs this past season. Miner has continued to consistently grow and build upon his skill set, which has earned him a one-year contract extension and the third goaltender position in the organization. And as a result Miner has moved up our rankings this year from #15 to almost cracking the top five.

TRENT MINER! pic.twitter.com/W5BY8WZljO

— Colorado Eagles (@ColoradoEagles) May 8, 2025

This upcoming season, Miner will probably be the first call-up option as a goaltender for the Avs when they’re in a pinch, just like he was for them this past season. Colorado’s goaltending duo is already set for this upcoming season with Makenzie Blackwood and Scott Wedgewood, which means that Miner will probably get very limited time with the Avs, if the NHL tandem stays healthy.

Miner played fine in his time with the Avs this past year, but it was also pretty clear that he isn’t NHL-ready quite yet with a save percentage under .900; that’s not meant as a dig a him whatsoever; that’s just the case. Even if he was NHL-ready, as previously mentioned, Colorado has their tandem for the upcoming season. However, that does mean that Miner has plenty more opportunities this upcoming season to continue to develop with the Eagles as their starter and build upon his performance from last season. Hopefully, Miner is able to do just that, and continues to develop into a solid goalie option for the Avs.

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

#16 Francesco Dell’Elce

#15 Cooper Gay

#14 Christian Humphreys

#13 Tory Pitner

#12 Taylor Makar

#11 Zakhar Bardakov

#10 Chase Bradley

#9 Matt Stienburg

#8 Danil Gushchin

#7 Nikita Prishchepov

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...orado-avalanche-top-25-under-25-6-trent-miner

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Cale Makar and the Burden of Brilliance

In an era overflowing with elite talent, Cale Makar stands apart as a generational defenseman—already shaping his legacy as one of the greatest to ever redefine what’s possible from the blue line, and one whose presence Avalanche fans can consider a rare and cherished privilege.

At this juncture, anyone still requiring a reminder of Makar’s greatness is either willfully in denial or beyond the reach of persuasion. He is such an incredible talent that it seems as if he shatters a record with every passing season—perhaps because he truly does. In 2022, Makar became the fastest defenseman in NHL history to amass 200 career points, achieving the milestone in just 195 games and surpassing the previous record of 207 held by Sergei Zubov.

And he did not stop there—Makar proceeded to achieve yet another remarkable milestone, reaching 250 career points in just 241 games and surpassing the legendary Bobby Orr’s previous mark of 247. Less than a year after eclipsing Zubov’s record, he had done the same to Orr’s, further cementing his place among the all-time greats.

What is even more remarkable is that Makar stands alone as the only defenseman in the NHL since 2000 to record three seasons of 85 or more points.

Pause for a moment and reflect on the Hall of Fame blueliners who have graced the ice over the past quarter-century—and yet, it is only Makar who has achieved this feat. Nicklas Lidström, a seven-time Norris Trophy winner, never reached that plateau. Scott Niedermayer, a four-time Stanley Cup champion with two different teams, fell short. Erik Karlsson, despite three Norris Trophies, has not accomplished it either. Not even Quinn Hughes—though Vancouver fans may fervently hope otherwise—can claim this distinction, though Hughes posted 92 points (17 goals, 75 assists) during the 2023–24 season, suggesting he may one day join this exclusive company. Hughes is, undeniably, an exceptional talent, yet the record remains Makar’s alone.

Of course, such comparisons may not be entirely equitable, for not every defenseman is a true dual threat. Moreover, those blueliners who excel in one dimension but lack all-around prowess are often overlooked for accolades—a slight that may be unjust, though, regrettably, the world is rarely fair.

Viewed through this lens, Avalanche fans should feel fortunate to have witnessed Makar’s brilliance over the past seven years (just not on TV), beginning with his highly anticipated debut in the 2019 Stanley Cup Playoffs. We are all guilty of losing sight of this at times. The pursuit of another Stanley Cup is always foremost in our minds, yet the dream can sometimes obscure the simple joy of observing—and the deep respect due to—these athletes each time they lace up their skates.

Makar Will Come Out Firing This Season

Consider, for a moment, what it would mean to inhabit Makar’s position. You are the cornerstone of a franchise, a player so integral to its identity that your departure is all but unimaginable. Over the past five seasons, you have twice claimed the Norris Trophy, for the league’s most outstanding defenseman, standing as a finalist in each of those years. You have captured a Stanley Cup, earning the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most outstanding performer in the postseason. You have set franchise records for goals and assists as a defenseman. And yet now, amid this record of achievement, a subtle dissonance emerges. Your most recent postseason performance fell short of expectations, and murmurs of doubt have begun to circulate even among your own supporters. The fake missing-person posters that circulated during the playoffs were amusing from an outside perspective, yet for a player who has invested everything in the organization, such public mockery could reasonably provoke irritation.

History underscores that even the most prodigious athletes are not impervious to the fluctuations of performance. Wayne Gretzky, widely celebrated as the preeminent postseason performer in NHL history, was no exception. Over the course of 20 playoff campaigns, he accumulated 382 points, averaging roughly nineteen points per postseason. Yet during the 1992 Stanley Cup Playoffs, he managed a mere seven points—a striking deviation from seasons in which he routinely tallied thirty or more. Admittedly, the Los Angeles Kings were eliminated early that year, but even by Gretzky’s exceptional standards, there was a bit of regression. Were social media to have existed in that era, the ensuing deluge of commentary and criticism would have been both instantaneous and inescapable. One can only conjecture how Gretzky might have navigated such relentless scrutiny.

For Makar, as for Gretzky, the challenge lies not in avoiding criticism—an impossible task—but in transforming it into motivation. The capacity to internalize disappointment, to channel external noise into renewed focus and performance, is a hallmark of enduring greatness. It is a reminder that even the most celebrated athletes are human, and that resilience in the face of scrutiny often defines the trajectory of a career more than any single performance.

The criticism aimed at Makar by a vocal minority of fans recalls the treatment once endured by former boxing world champion Sergio Martínez. A late bloomer who rose to prominence in his thirties, Martínez established himself as one of the finest fighters of his generation. Yet, as age and injury inevitably eroded his edge, the veneer of invincibility faded. His knockout defeat to Miguel Cotto served as the moment when reality—long deferred—finally arrived.

Martínez himself articulated the isolation that followed. After victories, he was accustomed to hundreds of congratulatory texts and calls, his phone buzzing with the affirmation of friends, admirers, and distant acquaintances alike. But in defeat, the silence was deafening. Only a handful reached out, a reminder of how quickly the crowd disperses when the glow of success dims.

“When I lost my last fight against Miguel Cotto I had four missed calls. One was from an unknown number and the other three were from my mother. That put everything in its place.”

It is this fickleness—of fandom, of reputation, of public sentiment—that Makar now confronts, although it’s nowhere close to the brutality that boxers particularly face. Unlike one bad game, one rough night in the ring could ruin the entire trajectory of your life. The parallel is instructive: greatness can command awe, but it also attracts scrutiny, and when the slightest falter appears, some reveal themselves less as supporters than opportunists.

That said, Makar remains, fundamentally, a human being. It is almost certain that he witnessed the jokes, the memes, and the subtle (or not-so-subtle) questioning of his abilities. History has shown that extraordinary athletes confront such noise in one of two ways: some succumb to it, while others harness it, rising above the scrutiny and silencing the skeptics. Makar does not necessarily need to produce a transcendent season to affirm his greatness—his spot in the Hockey Hall of Fame is already secured. But he’s far from done. If one thought last year’s performance was remarkable, the 2025–26 season promises to offer an entirely new demonstration of his extraordinary talent and resolve.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...57315/cale-makar-and-the-burden-of-brilliance