The Colorado Avalanche have had a relatively quiet offseason. Aside from the trade with the Columbus Blue Jackets, it’s been rather still. But the Avalanche could have one more move up their sleeve before the summer ends.
Now, we’re not talking about a blockbuster ahead of training camp. While plausible, it’s not something we expect. The Avs, at this point, are likely kicking the tires on Professional Tryout Contract (PTO) invitees. These are players who are essentially long shots at this point. But they could provide the club with plenty of value.
There are some interesting names out there who could jump at the idea of a PTO in hopes of another shot at the NHL. Someone like former San Jose Sharks blue liner Marc-Edouard Vlasic, Columbus Blue Jackets forward Luke Kunin, or veteran Craig Smith could give the Avalanche much-needed depth on a cheap contract.
Contenders like the Avalanche rely on PTOs to bring in solid depth players to bolster the club at an affordable price point.
Sure, we’d love to hear about a massive trade in which the Avs land a major player. Who doesn’t love those? But realistically, Colorado only has $2 million or so in cap space. That’s enough for a couple of PTOs at best.
The likeliest outcome at this point is the Avalanche considering a couple of PTO candidates and potentially signing one for the bottom six. The club might want to keep around $800K in cap space for emergency call-ups during the season.
And that’s that for the summer buzz.
Colorado Avalanche could make waves with in-season trade
The Colorado Avalanche could still make waves with an in-season trade. The most immediate candidate is Martin Necas. The uncertainty surrounding his contract makes him the easiest trade target to identify.
But then again, Necas may not be the first to make waves. Depending on the Avalanche’s injury situation, the club could be compelled to make a move. For instance, what would happen if Gabriel Landeskog goes down? The Avalanche would all of a sudden be in the market for a top-six winger.
Also, what would happen if Brent Burns doesn’t work out? Would that mean the Avalanche trade for another defenseman?
These are all variables I’m certain GM Chris MacFarland and his staff have discussed. I’m also certain there are contingency plans in place to address such matters. While we hope that none of these scenarios play out, we have to be ready for them.
So, fans shouldn’t be surprised to hear rumblings throughout the season. GMs always kick the tires on what’s out there. While that doesn’t necessarily mean a deal is in the works, GMs want to know what their options are.
The Colorado Avalanche are hardly done with their lineup this season. But forthcoming moves will largely depend on what happens during the season. Stay tuned because there’s plenty more to come.