New report reveals unbelievable career update concerning Avalanche's latest young acquisition
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A recent report has revealed a surprising and significant career development for Colorado Avalanche forward Danil Gushchin, the team's latest young acquisition, signalling that the talented prospect could make an even bigger impact than initially expected.
Gushchin was recently acquired in a one-for-one trade with the San Jose Sharks in exchange for former Avalanche first-round pick Oskar Olausson.
New report reveals stunning career update on Danil Gushchin.
Ezra Parter from Mile High Hockey writes that Gushchin, a 2020 third-round pick by the Sharks, played out his three-year entry-level contract with the organization before being traded.
"Gushchin definitely has a lower ceiling than the former first round pick he is replacing. Due to his large frame and deadly shot, Olausson intrigued as a possible top six option whose offense could paper over the holes in his defensive game and a lack of intensity in his overall play.
Gushchin is essentially the opposite player: A speedy, small playmaking forward who backchecks and defends with a grit that could earn him a look as a penalty kill/fourth line option in the NHL like most AHL veterans." -Parter
Gushchin is essentially the opposite player: A speedy, small playmaking forward who backchecks and defends with a grit that could earn him a look as a penalty kill/fourth line option in the NHL like most AHL veterans." -Parter
While his size is a limitation, lacking the length and strength typical of defensive forwards, he compensates with relentless energy and smart positioning.
"On top of that, Gushchin has found a way to contribute offense consistently at the AHL level, posting nearly a point per game over the last two seasons after scoring 45 points in 67 games in his first full season with the Barracuda.
A large role on the power play certainly bolstered this production, though, with 28 of his 51 points in 2024-25 coming on the man advantage, contrast that with Olausson's four power play points in the same season." -Parter
A large role on the power play certainly bolstered this production, though, with 28 of his 51 points in 2024-25 coming on the man advantage, contrast that with Olausson's four power play points in the same season." -Parter
Unfortunately, that offensive skill didn't carry over to the NHL for the 23-year-old Russian with the Sharks, who appeared in just 18 games across three seasons, recording only five points.
On a stronger Colorado roster, Gushchin could find more offense if he earns a spot with his defense, but he'll likely start with the AHL Eagles, replacing Matthew Phillips, assuming he clears waivers first.
Previously on Avalanche Insider
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AOUT 28 | 15 ANSWERS New report reveals unbelievable career update concerning Avalanche's latest young acquisition Do you think Avalanche prospect Danil Gushchin has a future in the NHL? | ||
| yes | 8 | 53.3 % |
| no | 7 | 46.7 % |
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