Colorado makes bold move by extending veteran forward for the long haul
Photo credit: Jeff McIntosh / CP
The Colorado Avalanche kicked off free agency on Tuesday by locking down a veteran forward.
The Avalanche have just signed depth forward Parker Kelly to a four-year contract extension.
Avalanche lock down veteran forward.
According to Sportsnet's NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, the deal for Kelly will be worth $6.8 million over four years, carrying a $1.7 million AAV.
Kelly has maintained consistent production over the past two season, tallying 18 points in 80 games during the 2023-24 campaign and 19 points in 80 games the following year.
The left-shot forward is expected to remain in a depth role for the Avalanche next season, likely anchoring the fourth line.
"Prior to turning pro, Kelly competed in 273 career WHL games with the Prince Albert Raiders from 2015-19 where he notched 188 points (93g/95a) and served as alternate captain during the 2017-18 and 2018-19 seasons. He recorded 21 points (11g/10a) over 35 WHL postseason contests and helped the Raiders capture the WHL championship in 2019." -NHL.com
Kelly made a strong impression in his first season with Colorado, showcasing his versatility by playing both center and wing. He matched his career in goals with 8 while settling new personal bests in assists with 11 and total points with 19. Now a key fixture on the Avalanche's bottom six, he's also emerged as one of their most reliable penalty killers.
"The 6-foot-1, 185-pound forward enters 2025-26 with 54 career points (25g/29a) in 257 regular-season games from 2020-25 with the Avalanche and Ottawa Senators. He's also cleared 100 hits in each of his four full NHL campaigns. Kelly joined the Avalanche organization by signing a two-year contract on July 1, 2024. -NHL.com
He averaged a career-high 12:35 of ice time per game and added two game-winning goals to his resume.
| POLL | ||
JUILLET 1 | 30 ANSWERS Colorado makes bold move by extending veteran forward for the long haul Are you happy with Kelly's new contract extension with the Avalanche? | ||
| yes | 26 | 86.7 % |
| no | 4 | 13.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
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