Avalanche fans concerned after Brent Burns drops nervous confession ahead of season
Brent Burns' prime years are behind him, and he knows his role on a Stanley Cup, contending Avalanche team will now be more about providing depth than carrying the load.
While Burns definitely looked very good in his first preseason game, it'll be hard to emulate that for an
82 game schedule at 40 years old.
Brent Burns understands his new role with the Colorado Avalanche.
Scott Rogust of Mile High Sticking recently discussed Brent Burns' potential heading into the season, noting that while no one expects him to return to his peak form, there is still pressure on him to provide valuable depth to the Avalanche's blue line.
"Burns is no longer playing at the same level as he had during his prime years with the San Jose Sharks, but he is a reliable player for championship teams to have as depth. That is exactly the role that Burns will play in Colorado, as a depth defenseman." -Rogust
Burns himself understands the position he is in, and even after playing 22 seasons in the NHL, it still feels like he's entering the league as a rookie.
"You know, the good feelings for me coming in, it's not just another training camp. You get antsy before you go to bed. You're nervous in the morning, no idea what to expect. It was a great practice. It was tough." -Burns
Burns is expected to play on the third defensive pairing next to
Keaton Middleton.
Burns didn't miss a game for the last three seasons with the Carolina Hurricanes, but he definitely saw a drop off in production.
Now joining a legitimate Stanley Cup contender in Colorado, Burns is no longer the top dog and will need to adjust to fewer minutes and less critical situations.
Despite that, the veteran appears unfazed and as motivated as ever to contribute to a successful season.
Previously on Avalanche Insider
POLL |
OCTOBRE 3 | 34 ANSWERS Avalanche fans concerned after Brent Burns drops nervous confession ahead of season Will Brent Burns score more than 25 points this season for the Colorado Avalanche? |
yes | 23 | 67.6 % |
no | 11 | 32.4 % |
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