Colorado Avalanche do right by Manson with extension

The Colorado Avalanche announced a two-year extension for 33-year-old blue liner Josh Manson on Thursday.

The two-year pact carries a total of $7.9 million. The $3.9 million AAV is slightly lower than Manson’s current $4.5 million AAV. Manson is entering the final year of his current contract, leading to speculation about his future in Denver.

Those questions have been answered, at least for the time being. By signing Manson, the Avalanche did right by one of their longest-tenured players. As Avalanche GM Chris MacFarland stated per NHL.com:

"Josh has been an important member of our blue line since joining the team during the 2022 stretch run."

Those comments underscore the loyalty and appreciation the Avalanche organization has for Manson’s contributions to the team.

The former sixth-round pick of the Anaheim Ducks from 2011 was hampered by injuries this past season. But rather than sending Manson to the glue factory, the Avalanche are betting he’s still got plenty of gas left in the tank.

But beyond the evident vote of confidence for Manson, MacFarland underscored what Manson means to the team by declaring:

"He is a steady and tough defender who chips in on the offensive side at key times. He is also a veteran leader in our dressing room, and we are excited to have him under contract for another three seasons."

Manson will run out the final year of his current deal this upcoming season. Then, his next contract will kick in for the 2026-27 season.

Keeping Manson solid move for Colorado Avalanche

The Colorado Avalanche made a solid move in holding on to Josh Manson. The club lacks high-end blue liners who can come in and fill a top-four role on the team.

Sean Behrens stands as Colorado’s best defensive prospect. However, he doesn’t project as a top-four blue liner just yet. Perhaps he will. But the 22-year-old may need at least one more season before seriously competing for an NHL job.

Hank Kempf is another interested defensive prospect who could get a serious look this fall. 2026 third-round pick Francesco Dell’Elce is about as ready to make a case for the NHL as they get. Despite being on 20, he could see action this season with the Colorado Eagles.

While the Avalanche have prospects in the pipeline, none of them could genuinely replace Josh Manson at this time. So, the Avalanche made the right move by holding on to Manson as the younger blue liners continue to grow.

For the time being, the Avalanche will need Josh Manson to continue being a steady physical presence on the club’s blue line. Hopefully, injuries won’t slow him down next season.

The concern will always be there. But as long as Manson is on the ice, the Avalanche will have a strong hand to guide the team.