Latest report reveals shocking news concerning Avalanche top defenseman
Photo credit: Helen H. Richardson / The Denver Post
In a season full of adversity, Devon Toews provided a rare source of stability for the Colorado Avalanche.
So when evaluating his performance, how did the experienced blueliner measure up this past season?
Shocking news concerning Colorado Avalanche Devon Toews has been revealed.
Ryan Womeldorf from The Hockey Writers reports that while the Avalanche worked to shake off a sluggish start and find their rhythm, Toews served as a calming presence on the back end. His offensive production dipped somewhat, largely due to the added responsibility of covering for Cale Makar's increased offensive risk-taking.
"By the middle of the season, with the Avalanche facing defensive depth issues again, Toews barely left the ice. It wasn't uncommon to see him play 28 minutes per night or more. That just shows how much the Avalanche have come to depend on Toews and his defensive efforts." -Womeldorf
At 31, Toews is understandably entering the back half of his career. While he's not experiencing a major decline, it's notable that his performance dipped across nearly measurable category.
"He was down in goals (12 to 10), assists (38 to 34), and points (50 to 44). Aside from the seven goals he scored during the 2022-23 season, he's trended downward in all three offensive categories over the past four seasons. Additionally, he had fewer blocks, hits, and takeaways while hitting a career-high in giveaways (81)." -Womeldorf
A quick look at the stats shows Toews had a strong season, but watching him play reveals an even greater impact. His skills in anchoring the defense while also adding offensively highlights just how vital he is to the Avalanche's blue line.
"The Avalanche have somewhat mortgaged the future in an effort to win now. That has presented more than a few challenges, especially when it comes to the depth of this team. For guys like Toews, that means taking on a bigger role and leaving themselves open to fewer holes in their game." -Womeldorf
For the time being, Toews continues to be an essential member of the team. As their top all-round defender, offensive contributor, and key leader, he will stay a cornerstone of the Avalanche moving forward.
Previously on Avalanche Insider
| POLL | ||
JUIN 8 | 41 ANSWERS Latest report reveals shocking news concerning Avalanche top defenseman Would Devon Toews be as good of a player without Cale Make by his side? | ||
| yes | 27 | 65.9 % |
| no | 14 | 34.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
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