Avalanche fans stunned by latest update on potential free agent target
Photo credit: Associated Press
Colorado Avalanche fans are stunned by the latest update regarding potential free agent target Matt Grzelcyk, raising new questions about the team's plans to bolster their blue line ahead of the upcoming NHL season.
Colorado has reportedly had their sights on Grzelcyk during the offseason.
New report reveals update on Matt Grzelcyk trade rumours.
Ryan O'Hara from Mile High Hockey writes that although the Avalanche clearly need a left-handed defenseman, their current salary cap situation makes any major additions unlikely.
With just over $1.3 million in cap space, the financial reality is tight. Given that Grzelcyk earned $2.75 million with the Pittsburgh Penguins and is coming off a career-best season, it's highly improbable he would agree to a significant pay cut.
"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." -O'Hara
This may help explain why Grzelcyk remains unsigned. As seen with the recent Joel Kiviranta contract saga, a single standout season doesn't always guarantee a big payday, teams typically reward sustained performance.
Grzelcyk hasn't reached that level yet, leaving him on the outside looking in for now.
"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." -O'Hara
Adding a left-handed defenseman like Grzelcyk would undoubtedly strengthen the blue line, but the harsh reality is that it isn't financially feasible.
| POLL | ||
AOUT 25 | 27 ANSWERS Avalanche fans stunned by latest update on potential free agent target Should the Avalanche continue to pursue defenseman Matt Grzelcyk? | ||
| yes | 18 | 66.7 % |
| no | 9 | 33.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
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