The Colorado Avalanche announce first roster cuts

The Colorado Avalanche announced the team’s first round of roster cuts at this year’s training camp, according to NHL.com. The list includes a total of four players.

The players on the list were long shots to make the team this year. As such, moving on from the Avs’ main camp allows them to get much more playing time.

Let’s take a look at the team’s first cuts:

Colorado Avalanche first round of roster cuts

Max Curran

Curran was the Avalanche’s fifth-round pick in 2024. The 161st overall pick will be heading back to his Junior team, the Tri-City Americans of the WHL.

Last season, Curran notched five goals and 32 points in 40 games with the Americans. The 18-year-old center was not expected to figure into the mix for a roster spot at this point. However, following a strong rookie camp, the Colorado Avalanche wanted to get a closer look at Curran.

He should benefit from another year at Junior before potentially heading to the AHL next season. Overall, Curran’s progress is encouraging. He might compete for a roster spot as early as 2026.

Neil Shea

The 25-year-old Shea was reassigned to the Colorado Eagles of the AHL. The left winger spent last season in the Toronto Maple Leafs organization, playing 64 games with the Newfoundland Growlers of the ECHL. He played one game for the Toronto Marlies of the AHL.

Shea should get a good look at the AHL level, potentially pushing himself into the conversation for a call-up should injuries become an issue for the Avalanche. However, he’s most likely going to spend the entire season in the AHL.

Briley Wood

Wood spent last season in the WHL with the Wenatchee Wild, notching an impressive 28 goals and 62 points in 60 games. The 21-year-old forward can play center and the wing, making him a versatile option for the Avs.

He got a look at camp this year, making him an intriguing option for the main club down the road. Wood projects as a bottom-six option, perhaps cracking the Avs’ roster at some point next season. If Wood has a solid season in the AHL, he could certainly make a push for a roster spot next season.

Garrett Pyke

Pyke signed with the Eagles after a strong run in the NCAA. Last season, Pyke spent time with the University of North Dakota, registering 25 points in 39 games.

This season, Pyke should spend his first pro season with the Eagles, vying for a full-time job with the club. At 25, he’s a bit on the older side as far as prospects go. But, there’s always a chance he could make the jump to the NHL if he has a strong season in the AHL.