A trade completed between the New York Islanders and Colorado Avalanche that changed the organization
Photo credit: NHL.com
The New York Islanders took on the Colorado Avalanche on October 24, 2024 during the NHL's 'Frozen Frenzy'. It was a rare clash between these teams, and all eyes were on the Avalanches' Devon Toews, a defenseman the Islanders wish they'd never let go.
Where the Colorado Avalanche scored big by acquring Devon Toews
In 2020, the Islanders general manager, Lou Lamoriello, had an issue, as the team was strapped for cash after a deep playoff run.
This was when the Islanders signed a young star, Matthew Barzal, for Toews and a couple of second-round picks.. At the time, it didn't seem like the worst move, however, fast forward three years, and it's a total facepalm.
Toews has been outstanding for the Avalanche, since arriving to the team, he's racked up big numbers. From the 2021/23 NHL seasons, he accumulated 29 goals, 109 assists, with huge logged minutes (25:04 per game).
The Islanders were able to hold strong in the 2020/21 season, but when Toews left, the team gradually fell on. By 2021/22, they missed the playoffs with slow defenseman that couldn't hold a spark offensively.
Meanwhile, Toews turned Colorado's blue line into a powerhouse, creating much more opportunity for the organization, he was undoubtedly the right fit for this team.
This trade didn't just hurt the Islanders, it completely changed the game.
Toes proved a great blue line wins titles, and although this is a tough pill to swallow for Islanders fans, it just goes to show how big a quick fix can diminish a team.
Are you a fan of Devon Toews?
Previously on Avalanche Insider
| POLL | ||
AVRIL 5 | 82 ANSWERS A trade completed between the New York Islanders and Colorado Avalanche that changed the organization Are you a fan of Devon Toews? | ||
| Yes!!! | 79 | 96.3 % |
| No | 3 | 3.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
