Avalanche top defender reportedly being used as trade bait in shocking new twist

Girard's name has been in the rumour mill for over a year now.

Dan Mount from Last Word On Sports writes that it's time for another round of NHL rumours. Even though we're deep into summer, the offseason isn't slowing down. General managers are busy behind the scenes, maneuvering to shape their rosters for the upcoming season.

Team executives are strategizing their next move, which could lead to cost-cutting trades aimed at freeing up space cap space. While recent trade activity has been relatively quiet, a flurry of deals may be on the horizon as teams rush to meet salary cap requirements.

Aarif Deen from Colorado Hockey Now reported that Samuel Girard might remain available for trade as the Avalanche work to create more salary cap flexibility.

The Avalanche currently have just over $3.3 million in cap space heading into the season. Still, they might look to make a move to bolster their forward depth or create flexibility for a potential trade deadline deal. One player who could be on the move is Girard, who has two seasons remaining on his contract with a $5 million cap hit.

That appeared to be the reasoning behind letting Coyle go, as he was traded to the Columbus Blue Jackets. MacFarland wasn't willing to invest that kind of money in a third-line center.

Meanwhile, Girard's ice time has declined over recent seasons. At the trade deadline, Colorado acquired Lindgren from the New York Rangers, but Lindgren signed with the Seattle Kraken during the offseason. To fill the gap, the Avalanche responded by signing Brent Burns to a one-year deal.

Head coach Jared Bednar faces pressure to lead the Avalanche to another deep playoff run. With stars like Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar on the roster, the team has plenty of talent, but they'll need to gel as unit to overcome their recent streak of misfortune.

Source:
Last Word On Sports
NHL Rumours: Colorado Avalanche Defender Could Be Trade Bait