Avalanche still need to address one massive issue before the start of next season
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The Colorado Avalanche enter the summer with a massive hole at their third-line center position that desperately needs to be addressed before the start of next season.
According to a recent reports, the Avalanche may have already found their solution within the organization.
The Avalanche desperately need a third-line center.
Aarif Deen from Colorado Hockey Now writes that as the San Jose Sharks continue their rebuild, they're stocking the roster with experienced veterans. Meanwhile, the Avalanche have yet to solidify their plans at third-line center.
"There are several questions that still need to be answered, and one of them is the hole the Avs have at 3C. Jack Drury could very much be elevated to that spot, and either Parker Kelly or perhaps Zakhar Bardakov would then slot in at center on the fourth line. But it seems like a thin core." -Deen
What happens if Brock Nelson underperforms, or worse, misses a few weeks due to injury? That would leave the Avalanche leaning heavily on Nathan MacKinnon once again, a pattern they've relied on far too often over the past three seasons.
It's a risky scenario, especially in a year where MacKinnon is expected to take on a major role with Team Canada at the upcoming Winter Olympics in Italy.
"Having a strong 3C is crucial, at least to add to that depth that's lacking after the Charlie Coyle trade." -Deen
After the Coyle trade, GM Chris MacFarland noted that he sees Drury primarily as a fourth-line center, though he's open to giving his a shot on the third line.
This upcoming season will be a key evaluation period for Drury's future with the Avalanche. Will he prove to be the reliable 3C the team envisioned, or is he destined to be overmatched in that role? Only time will tell.
| POLL | ||
JUILLET 12 | 22 ANSWERS Avalanche still need to address one massive issue before the start of next season Do you think Avalanche forward Jack Drury can be the third-line center in Colorado next season? | ||
| yes | 20 | 90.9 % |
| no | 2 | 9.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
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