3 young forwards the Colorado Avalanche must seriously consider trading for in the 2024 offseason

Shane Pinto/Ottawa Senators

If there is one organization that may sell off assets this summer, it’s the Ottawa Senators, and pending RFA Shane Pinto could see himself on the move along with the likes of Erik Brannstrom and Jakob Chychrun. But since we’re discussing forwards, let’s zero in on Pinto. 

Defense was one of Colorado’s weaknesses this past season, but luckily, Pinto could give them another layer on their lower lines. He showed it in the Canadian capital (but with top-six minutes) despite Ottawa being a poor defensive team itself. His play has gotten more physical over the past season, plus the ability to wreak havoc with his stick remains a strength.

Pinto can provide more help in the faceoff circle, and he would also make for a sound supplementary scoring option. He didn’t always get to show off the latter while with the Sens, thanks to the team’s inconsistencies in the offensive zone, but in a place like Denver, Pinto could thrive if placed onto the third line.

He hit the 20-goal milestone in 2022-23, and despite scoring just nine goals and 27 overall points this past year, Pinto also played in just 41 contests. Multiply that number by two, and he was on pace for 18 goals and 54 points. Like Zegras, he won’t come cheap, but the Avs would get a ton of value if they acquired him.