3 trade chips the Avalanche must use to rebuild for a cup run next season
Photo credit: AP Photo / LM Otero
The Colorado Avalanche are reeling after a second consecutive playoff loss to the Dallas Stars, yet they lack both the assets and cap space needed to improve their roster.
If GM Chris MacFarland hopes to preserve the team's championship core, parting ways with a few overpaid players could be the best way to free up valuable cap space.
Three trade chips the Avalanche must use to rebuild for a cup run next season.
Colin Gallant from Clutch Points writes that with the team pressed up against the cap ceiling, the only path for MacFarland to improve the lineup is by shedding contracts, and he's built a reputation around the league for not hesitating to make bold moves.
Outside of Charlie Coyle, Ross Colton's $4 million AAV is the priciest in the bottom six. While it may only be a slight overpayment, it's a luxury the top-heavy Avalanche simply can't afford.
"After Colton only played seven minutes during the playoffs this year, the club could choose to promote Ivan Ivan, who played well in 40 games during his rookie year. Barring a promotion, the team could use some of Colton's salary to bring in a UFA who could fill his role at a more reasonable cost, or to shore up their back end." -Gallant
Miles Wood delivered on expectations in his first season with Colorado, putting up 26 points while charging through the lineup like a bull in a china shot alongside Colton and Logan O'Connor. However, last season exposed some major issues, plagued by injuries, Wood was limited to just 37 games, managed only eight points, and despite the reduced ice time, still led the Avalanche in penalty minutes.
"On top of his undisciplined play, Wood's season ended after a brutal turnover against the Stars in Game 2. The front office and coaching staff made their displeasure clear, not dressing Wood again during the series despite his strong play otherwise during the game. This could be a sign of things to come, as Wood has four years left on a contract that Colorado might look to jettison in favour of a more responsible, less penalty prone replacement player." -Gallant
Lastly, with Cale Makar and Devon Toews forming the league's best top pair and undersized RFA Sam Malinkski expected to sign a budget-friendly deal for the bottom pair, the decision comes down to either Josh Manson or Samuel Girard facing the trade block.
"That being said, Manson leads the penalty kill and brings crucial size to the defense as the only player over six foot or 200 pounds, and he plays like it. He is mean, nasty, and physical; everything you want in a rugged defenseman for a postseason run. However, he is constantly banged up, only averaging 50 games a season in Colorado. As an upcoming UFA, it would be wise for MacFarland to trade Manson now before he breaks down further." -Gallant
By moving Manson's salary, the Avalanche could upgrade their bottom defense, swapping his size and toughness for a more affordable option. This approach would also let them keep the core defensive group that's helped lead the NHL in goals over the past few seasons.
| POLL | ||
JUIN 7 | 61 ANSWERS 3 trade chips the Avalanche must use to rebuild for a cup run next season Which player do you think the Avalanche should trade next? | ||
| Ross Colton | 19 | 31.1 % |
| Miles Wood | 36 | 59 % |
| Josh Manson | 6 | 9.8 % |
| List of polls | ||
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