NHL fans stunned after Brent Burns reveals real reason he signed with Colorado

Set to enter his 22nd NHL season, and first with the Avs, the 40-year-old veteran says his enduring love for the game continues to fuel his drive and hunger to compete.

Jacob Punturi from Breakaway On Si writes that there's another key factor driving Burns as he gears up for his first season with the Avalanche: the elusive Stanley Cup. Despite an accomplished career, the veteran blueliner has yet to hoist hockey's ultimate prize, falling just short in the 2016 Final.

Now, with time running out and opportunities dwindling, Burns us more determined than ever to chase a championship. After signing with Colorado, he made it clear that the chance to compete for the Cup remains a powerful motivator in his return to the ice.

To make that championship dream a reality, Burns know he'll need to embrace a supporting role in Colorado. With the Avalanche's blue line already anchored by perennial Norris Trophy contender Cale Makar and steady partner Devon Toews, Burns won't be logging the heavy minutes he once did. Instead, the 40-year-old will be expected to contribute as a reliable third-pairing presence and a second power-play option. And that's just fine with him, the veteran is fully brought in and ready to do whatever the team needs to help bring the Stanley Cup back to Colorado.

The Avalanche are looking to bounce back after a disappointing first-round exit at the hands of the Dallas Stars in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Determined to retool, Colorado made a series of bold offseason moves. They parted ways with winger Jonathan Drouin in free agency and cleared cap space by trading forwards Charlie Coyle and Miles Wood to the Columbus Blue Jackets.

These decisions signal a clear intention from the front office: shake things up and refocus the roster for another deep playoff run.

Source:
Breakaway On Si
Avalanche Defenseman Chasing Stanley Cup