Colorado Avalanche top prospect Ivan Ivan on thin ice after latest update
Photo credit: (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)
Ivan Ivan followed an unusual route to get to the NHL last season. He's working to beat the odds, but his journey is exactly the kind of development success story the Colorado Avalanche need as they search for reliable supporting players to complement their expensive core of star talent.
Following a strong start to his rookie season, Ivan spent the latter half of the year back in the AHL with the Colorado Eagles. Now, he's focused on helping the Avalanche's AHL affiliates pursue a Calder Cup title, while aiming to secure a more permanent spot in Colorado's NHL lineup next season.
Colorado Avalanche top prospect on thin ice after latest update.
Corey Masisak from the Denver Post writes that Ivan emerged as a breakout player for the Eagles last season as a rookie, earning his first NHL entry-level contract by March.
"When the Avs were missing key NHL forwards in training camp, Ivan seized the opportunity. Once Valeri Nichushkin and Artturi Lehkonen returned, Ivan kept his place. At one point, he had five goals and eight points in 22 games." -Masisak
Eventually, he hit the rookie wall. After going 18 games without recording as point, he was sent back to the Eagles. The kind of transition can be tough for young players, especially after getting a tase of NHL action.
«It's a big difference. It feels like it was hard to switch the tempo and style of hockey, especially after 40 games. You get used to the habits on the ice. It's just different. Just trying to work hard, and trying to figure out my game in the AHL again.» -Ivan
Masisak also writes that the Avs have 11 forwards signed for next season, along with several important free agents to address. If a player like Ivan can show he's capable of being a reliable bottom-six contributor at under $1 million against the cap, it could be a big win for a team that needs to uncover cost-effective options.
"Players like Logan O'Connor, Sam Malinski and Ivan can help make up for the amount of draft capital the Avs have dealt away recently. Next season will be a huge one for the kid with two first names and the tools to be another undrafted success story." -Masisak
Ivan and the Eagles are currently facing the Abbotsford Canucks in the best-of-five AHL Pacific Final.
| POLL | ||
MAI 24 | 39 ANSWERS Colorado Avalanche top prospect Ivan Ivan on thin ice after latest update Do you think Avalanche prospect Ivan Ivan will have a full time roster spot in the NHL next season? | ||
| yes | 22 | 56.4 % |
| no | 17 | 43.6 % |
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