Low-risk gamble for the Avalanche might just become the x-factor they've been looking for
Photo credit: Vegas Hockey Knight
The Colorado Avalanche were in desperate need of some depth scoring, a week ago they got it with the signing of Victor Olofsson, not only did they get a game changing sniper, they got him with little to no risk.
The Swedish forward signed a deal a deal worth an AAV of $1.6 million last week.
Victor Olofsson provides lots of upside for very little risk for Colorado.
Aaron Poorman of Mile High Sticking discussed the Olofsson signing, not only what he can provide the team but how it doesn't hurt them too much if he doesn't pan out.
"That's because Olofsson is multi-faceted insurance for a contender with the highest of expectations. On one hand, the club could be adding a potentially lethal weapon on the power play. Olofsson's bread and butter is a nasty one-timer that could make Colorado's top power play unit a juggernaut." -Poorman
You could also put him on the second power play unit along with Brent Burns to help take pressure of the first unit. However Olofsson's real value lies in his versatility.
"Yet, perhaps this addition is subtly the same issue. If Colorado has to play a load-management strategy already, Olofsson might in fact be extra valuable. He's a player who could drift up the lineup when needed, and also seems less prone to becoming a ghost offensively if he misses some time." -Poorman
And luckily for the Avalanche, they signed him for not too expensive and if he out performs his expectations, he can be used in a trade for a different player or a draft pick equal in value.
"Even in a worst case scenario, aside from long-term injury, Olofsson is a good risk. The contract hit of almost $1.6 million is a bit higher than I wanted, but certainly reasonable. As much as I hate imagining things not working out for any new Avalanche player, it's comforting to know that Olofsson was highly sought after. In similar contracts we have seen in recent years, there are two relevant comparisons to be made." -Poorman
Whether Olofsson works out or not, the Avalanche were smart to sign him. He has battled injuries in the past but if he remains healthy and records a 40-50 point season the Avalanche get the depth they need or can trade for something more interesting. And if he doesn't work out the contract won't hurt them.
Source:
Mile High Sticking
Victor Olofsson signing was a low-risk, high-reward move for Colorado Avalanche
Mile High Sticking
Victor Olofsson signing was a low-risk, high-reward move for Colorado Avalanche
| POLL | ||
AOUT 24 | 23 ANSWERS Low-risk gamble for the Avalanche might just become the x-factor they've been looking for Will Olofsson score at least 40 points this season with the Avalanche? | ||
| yes | 18 | 78.3 % |
| no | 5 | 21.7 % |
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