Fans on edge after latest report reveals stunning details concerning Avalanche future stars
Photo credit: SOPA Images / Mile High Sticking
Fans are on edge after a recent report revealed surprising and potentially game-changing details about the Colorado Avalanche's top prospects as the team prepares for the upcoming NHL season.
Although the Avalanche's prospects pool lacks elite talent, it still includes several intriguing players who possess star potential.
New report reveals stunning details concerning Avalanche's top prospects.
Nestor Quixtan from Mile High Sticking writes that like many contenders, the Avalanche don't have an exceptionally deep prospect pool. This is largely because competitive teams often trade their top prospects as assets to acquire key players necessary for championship runs.
We'll be focusing on players who could make an impact in the NHL relatively soon, although their expected arrival is still a couple of seasons off. While some might attend training camp this fall, their presence will mostly be for the experience rather than a genuine chance to earn a roster spot.
With that, let's take a closer look at the three top Avalanche prospects as we head into the 2025-26 season.
"Sean Behrens had a tough break last season. A knee injury derailed his entire season. He missed valuable playing time, which could impact his development. At 21, Behrens still has plenty of time to grow into a bona fide NHL defenseman." -Quixtan
Behrens might develop similarly to Sam Malinski, which is a positive comparison for the Avalanche's second-round pick from the 2021 NHL Draft. He's sure to get a look during training camp this fall, but it's most probable that he'll spend the season with the Colorado Eagles.
"Behrens could turn into a solid bottom-four blue liner with a solid offensive upside. His lack of size would preclude him from a shutdown role, but don't be surprised to find a Behrens-Malinski pairing at some point this upcoming season." -Quixtan
Gavin Brindley became part of the Avalanche organization through the trade involving Charlie Coyle. As a former second-round pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, he is an exciting addition with a promising high ceiling.
"It's fair to assume that Brindley won't be cracking the Opening Night lineup. But then again, Brindley could get a look, particularly if injuries hit in waves. Brindley would be a nice addition as a third-line winger. His numbers at the University of Michigan in 2023-24 were stellar. He scored 25 goals and 53 points in 40 games. So, there's plenty of potential there." -Quixtan
Brindley's main drawback is his size, standing just 5'9" and weighing 168 pounds. However, that won't be an issue if he proves to be a productive scoring winger.
At 20-years-old, he's sure to get a look during training camp, and if he impresses, he could earn a spot to start the season with the Avalanche. If not, he'll likely be sent to the Colorado Eagles for further development before earning a call-up later in the year.
"Ilya Nabokov has to be the most intriguing Colorado Avalanche prospect. He's a goaltender who's poised to get the starting job with the Eagles. At 22, there's no need to rush him to the NHL. The Avalanche can take their time waiting for Nabokov to adjust to the NHL game following his time in the KHL." -Quixtan
At first glance, Nabokov's route to the NHL appears blocked by Mackenzie Blackwood. However, there is still a pathway for him to make it to the league as early as next season.
"Scott Wedgewood will be a UFA after this upcoming season. While I would love to see the Colorado Avalanche re-sign Wedgewood, a good season from Nabokov could make Wedgewood expendable. The club might feel confident in having Nabokov back up Blackwood as soon as next season." -Quixtan
There is one important caveat: the Avalanche will proceed cautiously with Nabokov to prevent a repeat of the situation they experienced with Justus Annunen.
| POLL | ||
JUILLET 29 | 11 ANSWERS Fans on edge after latest report reveals stunning details concerning Avalanche future stars Which Avalanche prospect has a more promising NHL future? | ||
| Sean Behrens | 4 | 36.4 % |
| Gavin Brindley | 5 | 45.5 % |
| Ilya Nabokov | 2 | 18.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
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