NHL Trade Talk: Colorado Avalanche Still Have Major Roster Choices to Make

NHL Trade Talk: Colorado Avalanche Still Have Major Roster Choices to Make

As the NHL offseason heats up, the Colorado Avalanche find themselves at a critical crossroads. After another playoff appearance that fell short of their ultimate goal, the team is now faced with several pivotal decisions that could shape the franchise’s immediate future and long-term success. With key players up for contract negotiations, looming salary cap pressures, and questions surrounding their depth, the Avalanche have no shortage of difficult choices to make.

The Avalanche still boast one of the most formidable cores in the league, with stars like Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, and Mikko Rantanen anchoring the roster. However, the supporting cast that surrounds them is in flux. Several players who played key roles in the 2024-25 season, including some veterans and depth forwards, are set to become unrestricted or restricted free agents.

One of the biggest question marks is the future of forward Valeri Nichushkin. His off-ice issues have raised concerns about his long-term reliability, despite his value when on the ice. The team must weigh whether to give him another chance or explore trade options.

Meanwhile, decisions must be made on players like Jonathan Drouin, who had a solid bounce-back season, and depth contributors such as Miles Wood, Andrew Cogliano, and Yakov Trenin. Retaining too many of these veterans could limit Colorado’s financial flexibility, while letting them walk risks weakening the team’s bottom six.

Goaltending Stability or Shake-Up?

Goaltending remains a key area for evaluation. Alexandar Georgiev held the starting job this past season but was inconsistent at times, especially during the playoffs. The Avalanche need to decide whether Georgiev can carry the load long-term or if it’s time to explore alternatives—either through trade, free agency, or internal options like Justus Annunen.

Cap Crunch Complicates Moves

The NHL’s flat salary cap continues to be a thorn in the side of many contenders, and Colorado is no exception. With several large contracts already on the books and limited cap room, general manager Chris MacFarland will need to get creative. Any new additions or re-signings will require careful cap maneuvering, and that could mean parting ways with familiar faces or making unexpected trades.

Youth Movement or Veteran Additions?

Another major question is whether Colorado should rely more on its younger prospects or continue to bring in experienced players. Logan O’Connor, Ben Meyers, and Jean-Luc Foudy are among the younger players who could earn larger roles, but their readiness remains uncertain.

Balancing the experience of veterans with the energy and affordability of younger players is never easy, but the Avalanche need to start developing and integrating homegrown talent if they want to remain competitive under cap constraints.

The Clock Is Ticking

With the NHL Draft and free agency just weeks away, the Avalanche don’t have much time to finalize their game plan. Every decision—from who to re-sign to which prospects to prioritize—will carry significant implications.

Colorado remains a top-tier team with Stanley Cup aspirations, but to stay at the top, tough decisions lie ahead. The offseason may not bring a blockbuster move, but don’t be surprised if the Avalanche’s roster looks noticeably different by the time training camp beg