8. Who Will Emerge as the #2 Center?
The Colorado Avalanche had a very clear third line last season with Carl Soderberg centering Matthew Nieto and Blake Comeau. The last is gone, but it’s expected Matt Calvert will take his place.
But the Avs need a bona fide second-line center. Last season those duties mostly fell to Kerfoot. They may well do so again. But I wouldn’t say he’s the #2 center Colorado needs. Or, I think he needs to prove he’s the bona fide #2 center.
His competition is going to be his best buddies from last year, Compher and Jost. No question Tyson is expected to step into that position. Indeed, he seemed to get his NHL legs in the last quarter or so of the NHL season. However, it’s a far cry to say it’s his job to lose since he hasn’t really earned it yet.
Compher is also a legit contender. He’s got a better all-around game than the other two players, especially when it comes to defense. And he displays innate leadership qualities.
I think last season the Avs acquired Colin Wilson with the thought of his serving as interim #2 center while the prospects developed. He did not fulfill that role. Unless he radically turns his year around, he won’t be that player this season either.