The Colorado Avalanche may be in the market for a third-line Center

With the training camp on the horizon, it’s time to take a look at the Colorado Avalanche’s lineup in greater detail.

When looking over the projected lineup over at Daily Faceoff, a thought came to mind: Do the Colorado Avalanche need a third-line center?

Daily Faceoff projects Ross Colton at center on the third line with Miles Wood and Logan O’Connor. While that’s not a bad third line, is it a third line a Stanley Cup contender would have?

Personally, I like Colton. He’s a tough guy who still has offensive upside. Last season, he played 80 games, scoring 17 goals and totaling 40 points. Those numbers were almost a mirror-image of his 2021-22 with the Tampa Bay Lightning in which he had 22 goals and 39 points.

So, is that enough for a third-line center?

That depends on what the third line’s identity should be. If the Colorado Avalanche are looking for a scoring line, we can agree it’s a good start. But more would be expected from all three linemates.

But if the concept is to get a tougher, more physical third-line, that production is just fine. However, Colton was a minus-8 last year. While not awful, it’s a number that needs to improve, particularly if the goal is to have the third line play a more defensive role.

As it stands, Colton is a serviceable option on the third line. But should the Avs be looking for more?

Should the Colorado Avalanche Be in the Market for a Third-Line Center?

On the whole, GM Chris MacFarland should keep an eye out for anyone who might become available this season. At this point, it’s far too early to look at making a big trade.

But who knows who might be available around Christmas and beyond?

For instance, the New York Islanders might shop Brock Nelson before the trade deadline if the club is well out of the playoff hunt. Similarly, Nazem Kadri is said to want out of Calgary. So, why not consider a reunion?

These two players are examples of potential deals that might open up before or around the trade deadline. Now, this entire conversation would be moot if Colton runs away with the third-line center job. If Colton can deliver solid two-way play, the Avs may have no need to look elsewhere for help.

In that event, potential trade deadline deals may focus on adding depth heading into the playoffs. As such, another veteran bottom-six forward could help immensely as the season winds down and the playoffs loom.

Ultimately, it’s too early to make a call on the need for a third-line center. Nevertheless, the Colorado Avalanche must certainly consider pulling the trigger on a deal if the right player becomes available. Don’t be surprised to hear musings and rumblings about the Avs looking to add sooner rather than later.