NHL insider confirms why the Avalanche might be ready to cash in on a star veteran
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It's amazing how much can change in just a few months. Since their 2022 Stanley Cup win, the Avalanche have faced challenges filling their center depth.
However, after re-signing Bock Nelson, questions have shifted to their overall depth and whether they're open to parting ways with one of their top three centers.
Avalanche might be ready to cash in on a star veteran.
Aarif Deen from Colorado Hockey Now writes that Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman shared insights in his 32 Thoughts blog, mentioning that while the Avalanche may not be actively trying to trade Charlie Coyle, there is notable interest from other teams in acquiring him.
«You're going to see some situations where teams who may not need to do anything see offers for their players get better and better due to limited supply and so much demand." -Friedman
The challenge for the Avalanche is that one of the key benefits of having this kind of center depth is minimizing the need to scramble for another center at next year's trade deadline.
Coyle fits perfectly on the third line and can also provide backup for Nelson. However, if the Avs have their sights set on a different third-line center available in the market, why not capitalize on the opportunity to trade Coyle while his value is high.
"One example: Charlie Coyle, Colorado. Because Logan O'Connor is expected to start the season on LTIR, the Avalanche made it clear they don't need to do anything. Other teams keep calling, though. The more you say no, the more you see how far other teams are willing to go." -Friedman
Much of this hinges on two factors. First, do the Avs actually need the extra cap space? And if so, what would they use for it? Coyle carries a $5.25 million salary, so if the Avs can secure a significant return in a trade, they could use that free-up space to strengthen their defense corps.
"I wonder if something entices Chris MacFarland. The reality is, the center market is bare, and Coyle could fill a second-line center void for several teams. What if Toronto doesn't bring back John Tavares, for example?" -Deen
With the NHL Draft less than a week away and free agency just around the corner, we'll soon learn what other teams are willing to offer, and what the Avalanche might be able to get in return.
| POLL | ||
JUIN 22 | 36 ANSWERS NHL insider confirms why the Avalanche might be ready to cash in on a star veteran Should the Avalanche trade Charlie Coyle this offseason? | ||
| yes | 24 | 66.7 % |
| no | 12 | 33.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
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