Avalanche reportedly closing in on top free agent defenseman ahead of next season
Photo credit: NHL.com
Reports indicate that the Colorado Avalanche are closing in on an agreement with free agent defenseman Matt Grzelcyk, a move that could bolster their blue line depth as they prepare for the upcoming NHL season.
The Avalanche have already strengthened their blue line this summer, but recent reports suggest they still have more moves in the works.
Avalanche interested in signing free agent defenseman Matt Grzelcyk.
Dave Benson from Heavy.com writes that fincancially, the move make sense. With winger Logan O'Connor sidelined for 5-6 months after hip surgery, the Avalanche could place him on long-term injured reserve, freeing up the cap space needed to bring in Grzelcyk.
That would allow Colorado to offer him a one-year deal similar to the $2.75 million he earned last season in Pittsburgh.
"And just look at the ripple effect when Colorado made its most recent addition. Victor Olofsson wasn't a need, but the reaction around the league was universal: how the heck did the Avalanche add that guy, too? Another weapon on a team already stacked to the brim.
The same logic applies here. If Colorado scooped up Grzelcyk, the NHL would shrug, roll its eyes, and mutter the same thing: of course the Avs got him. Of course they just got deeper." -Benson
The same logic applies here. If Colorado scooped up Grzelcyk, the NHL would shrug, roll its eyes, and mutter the same thing: of course the Avs got him. Of course they just got deeper." -Benson
Bringing in Grzelcyk would provide Colorado with the insurance they currently lack when injuries inevitably arise. He wouldn't be expected to play a starring role, but rather to offer a reliable presence who can log steady minutes, move the puck efficiently, and minimize costly errors.
"Colorado doesn't need Matt Grzelcyk. That's what makes the idea so potent. They're already good enough to win it all." -Benson
If Joe Sakic and Chris MacFarland want to further separate the Avalanche from the pack, adding Grzelcyk could be the kind of savvy move that leaves the rest of the league shaking their heads in disbelief at yet another offseason steal.
Previously on Avalanche Insider
| POLL | ||
AOUT 24 | 32 ANSWERS Avalanche reportedly closing in on top free agent defenseman ahead of next season Should the Avalanche pursue free agent defenseman Matt Grzelcyk? | ||
| yes | 22 | 68.8 % |
| no | 10 | 31.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
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