Avalanche reportedly eyeing blockbuster trade to acquire young star from Maple Leafs
Photo credit: THE CANADIAN PRESS / Nathan Denette
As the Colorado Avalanche continue to find ways to bolster their bottom-six, reports indicate that they're closing in on a blockbuster trade to acquire Toronto Maple Leafs forward Bobby McMann in exchange for Ross Colton.
NHL insider Chris Johnston recently confirmed that the Avalanche are still looking to make some upgrades before the start of next season.
Avalanche have their eyes on someone from Toronto.
Charlie McAfee from Hockey Patrol writes that this year's free agency period has largely revolved around re-signings and teams redefining their identities. The Florida Panthers doubled down on their core talent to keep their dynasty hopes alive, while the Maple Leafs made a bold statement by moving on from longtime star Mitch Marner.
"One team that has undergone their own changes are the Colorado Avalanche. They've traded Charlie Coyle, Miles Wood, re-signed Brock Nelson, and brought in Brent Burns on a one-year deal. With Gabriel Landeskog back in the fray, things are looking good out in Denver." -McAfee
However, according to NHL insider Chris Johnston, they're still actively seeking an upgrade...
"[Colorado]; there's somewhat of an incomplete feeling regarding their roster, and don't expect GM Chris McFarland to stop, I think they are still going to be busy looking to upgrade." -Johnston
They're in need of more physicality throughout their lineup, and bringing in a player like McMann could help fill that gap. He would also provide some offensive depth to the bottom six. He tallied 20 goals, delivered 136 hits, and posted a plus-12 rating last season.
"There's really only one player who Toronto needs to go after and that's Colton. He's 28, a two-way menace, loves to hit and will consistently give you 15+ goals a season. He's the perfect Craig Berube type player, and with the Avs needing to figure out some other contracts, Colton and his $4-million salary is definitely expendable; they need money for Cale Makar after all." -McAfee
Additionally, Colton would offer Toronto valuable flexibility down the middle, with him, Nicolas Roy, and Scott Laughton all capable of playing both center and wing on the bottom six. Known for his elite defensive play, Colton was a key contributor to the Tampa Bay Lightning's 2021 Stanley Cup run.
"In 61 games this season, he had 29 points (16 goals, 13 assists), 42 blocks, 145 hits, and only 18 PIM. If there was ever a player who Craig Berube should want, it's him." -McAfee
Colorado might be reluctant to part ways with Colton due to his versatile skillset, but with more urgent needs looming, he could end up being a cap casualty.
| POLL | ||
JUILLET 13 | 26 ANSWERS Avalanche reportedly eyeing blockbuster trade to acquire young star from Maple Leafs Should the Avalanche trade for Maple Leafs forward Bobby McMann? | ||
| yes | 19 | 73.1 % |
| no | 7 | 26.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
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