Colorado Avalanche rookie Gavin Brindley reached a much-anticipated career milestone, notching his first career goal during the second period of the game against the Dallas Stars on Saturday night.
Brindley, who arrived in Colorado as part of the Charlie Coyle-Miles Wood trade with the Columbus Blue Jackets, took advantage of a loose puck to beat the Stars’ netminder Jake Oettinger to land his first NHL tally.
Here’s a look at the play:
FIRST NHL GOAL FOR GAVIN BRINDLEY 🚨 pic.twitter.com/fO6eA2kFqd
— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) October 12, 2025
Brindley wasn’t guaranteed a shot on the Avalanche this season. He was earmarked for the Colorado Eagles. But he impressed enough during training camp to earn himself a spot on the team.
While he hasn’t played a ton of minutes in the Avalanche’s first two games this season, he’s been getting increasing ice time. He’s rewarded Jared Bednar’s confidence with strong, tenacious play.
Saturday night’s goal is the result of Brindley’s hard work and dedication to building his skills at the NHL level.
Brindley was a second-round pick of the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2023 NHL Draft. He was a solid player at the University of Michigan in the NCAA. He scored 25 goals and 53 points in his final season there.
He played one game for the Blue Jackers during the 2023-24 season. He spent last season in the AHL with the Cleveland Monsters. In 52 games, he scored six goals and 17 points.
The Blue Jackets had seemingly given up on Brindley as a top prospect. The Blue Jackets moved him in the Charlie Coyle trade this summer. The Avalanche welcomed Brindley, as the club has been seriously devoid of up-and-coming prospects.
At this rate, there’s no telling how far Brindley can go with the Avalanche. He’s part of an extremely talented and deep team that could make it back to the Stanley Cup Final this season. Hopefully, Brindley can play a significant role in the Avalanche’s Cup hopes.