Could the Avalanche's newest addition hold the key to a rising star's breakout?
Photo credit: Matthew Stockman / Mile High Sticking
The Colorado Avalanche's signing of veteran all-star defenseman Brent Burns could be the biggest boost for Sam Malinski heading into the 2025-26 NHL season.
Malinski recently signed a one-year contract extension with the Avalanche.
Burns poised to mentor the Avalanche youth.
Graham Tiedtke from Mile High Sticking writes that the Avalanche made waves in free agency by trading Charlie Coyle and Miles Wood to the Columbus Blue Jackets, then signing 40-year-old defenseman Brent Burns. Burns brings a blend of offensive and defensive skills but is anticipated to fill a more limited role on the team's third defensive pairing.
"Alongside him will be Sam Malinski. Malinski saw extensive playing time (for him), averaging 1:43 of ice time more in 2024-25 than he did in 2023-24. However, the biggest difference was the amount of games Malinski played in: 23 in 2023-24 compared to 76 in 2024-25. He then signed a qualifying offer as a restricted free agent recently." -Tiedtke
At first glance, his five goals and 10 assists might not seem impressive. But what truly sets him apart is his presence all over the ice, contributing both offensively and defensively. His total shots skyrocketed from a modest 31 to an impressive 115. The Avalanche clearly value the impact he brings to the game.
"Of course, when it comes to the young players, a little mentoring doesn't hurt. That's where Burns comes into the mix. Yeah, He's going to be doing his thing, providing some defensive help alongside Malinski. He's also no stranger to scoring. Along with his many years as a defensive player, Burns has 177 games as a forward under his belt. In that time, he scored 27 goals and 43 assists." -Tiedtke
Although it's been more than ten year since he last played as a winger, Burns still possesses the insight needed to play an offensive style, precisely what the Avalanche are aiming for. Even after Burns' time in Colorado ends, the experience and knowledge he can share with a young player like Malinksi will prove invaluable for the 26-year-old's development.
It's entirely possible that Burns won't dress for every game in 2025-26, occasionally sitting as a healthy scratch with Keaton Middleton stepping in to provide a more physical presence when needed, depending on the matchup. Still, the time Burns and Malinksi do share on the ice promises to be exciting. After all, we already witnessed Malinski make a significant leap from his rookie season to year two.
Source:
Mile High Sticking
Colorado Avalanche's addition of Brent Burns is the best thing for Sam Malinski in 2025-26
Mile High Sticking
Colorado Avalanche's addition of Brent Burns is the best thing for Sam Malinski in 2025-26
| POLL | ||
JUILLET 9 | 21 ANSWERS Could the Avalanche's newest addition hold the key to a rising star's breakout? Will this be Sam Malinski's last season with the Colorado Avalanche? | ||
| yes | 6 | 28.6 % |
| no | 15 | 71.4 % |
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