New development reveals what's next for former Avalanche forward Joel Kiviranta
Photo credit: Jerome Miron / Imagn Images
A new development has revealed what lies ahead for former Colorado Avalanche standout and current free agent forward Joel Kiviranta following his breakout season, a year that saw him re-establish himself as a reliable, high-energy presence in the lineup.
Interest across the league appears nonexistent, and with August fast approaching, the odds of Kiviranta landing a contract are fading fast.
What's next for former Avalanche forward Joel Kiviranta?
Ryan O'Hara from Mile High Hockey writes that Kiviranta is currently navigating the offseason without an NHL contract, a situation that underscores the uncertainty surrounding his future in the league.
Despite putting together a career-best campaign that featured 16 goals and a strong showing on the penalty kill, the 29-year-old former Avalanche remains unsigned.
It's a surprising turn for a player who proved himself as a capable depth scorer and utility piece, but the general perception around the NHL seems to suggest that Kiviranta has already hit his ceiling as a player.
Unless a team sees late-summer value in his veteran presence and two-way reliability, he could be facing a long wait for his next opportunity.
"Kiviranta's prospects of securing a contract through unrestricted free agency appear increasingly slim as the calendar approaches August. The likelihood of a team extending a direct offer diminishes with time, rendering the most plausible avenue for his return to the NHL a professional tryout (PTO) agreement.
This pathway-marked by perseverance and demonstration of value during training camp-is how Kiviranta initially secured his place with the Colorado Avalanche." -O'Hara
This pathway-marked by perseverance and demonstration of value during training camp-is how Kiviranta initially secured his place with the Colorado Avalanche." -O'Hara
If a team decides to sign Kiviranta, the Buffalo Sabres make sense, especially in a bottom-six role. His reliable penalty killing could help shore up an inconsistent unit, and his occasional offensive upside would add a steady veteran presence to their young roster.
Another realistic scenario is Kiviranta rejoining the Avalanche once they address their roster gaps, potentially through a trade involving Martin Necas.
If a spot becomes available, head coach Jared Bednar would likely be eager to bring him back in a meaningful role. His current absence may very well be part of a bigger plan.
| POLL | ||
JUILLET 31 | 21 ANSWERS New development reveals what's next for former Avalanche forward Joel Kiviranta Do you think former Avalanche forward Joel Kiviranta signs a contract before the start of next NHL season? | ||
| yes | 15 | 71.4 % |
| no | 6 | 28.6 % |
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