Cale Makar
Cale Makar is another evident name that would only be moved if there is an alien invasion and the seven plagues are unleashed.
Makar is a perennial Norris Trophy candidate. He’s just entering his prime years and could be the face of the Colorado franchise for the remainder of his career.
Like MacKinnon, anyone wanting Makar would have to make a ridiculously mind-blowing offer. But I will say that there’s a sliver of doubt surrounding Makar. Makar will be a UFA in 2027. While that may seem like it’s still a while away, it’s a situation worth looking into.
The Avalanche will likely look to get Makar signed to an extension as soon as he is eligible to do so. Otherwise, the club may entertain a trade just like it did with Rantanen.
MacKenzie Blackwood
In a short span, MacKenzie Blackwood has become the backbone of the Colorado Avalanche this season. His reliable goaltending has given the team another dimension. The Avs showed their faith in Blackwood by signing him to a five-year, $26.25 million extension.
As such, we can safely bet that the Avalanche aren’t inclined to move Blackwood. Like MacKinnon and Makar, unless the return is Igor Shesterkin or Ilya Sorokin (how about Connor Hellebuyck?), the Colorado Avalanche won’t be moving Blackwood for anything in the world.
As a final reflection, does this list above mean there’s zero chance these players get traded? No, Wayne Gretzky dispelled that myth in 1988. But the fact is that we can assume that at least this season, there are three Colorado Avalanche players that we safely say will not be on the move.
Everyone else could be on the block….