The Colorado Avalanche re-signed defenseman Brent Burns this offseason as his one-year contract ran out following the playoff run.
For Burns, there was never really any question about whether or not he was going to play during the 2026-27 season. The only question was whether or not he would play the upcoming season in burgundy and blue.
Regarding the possibility of retirement, Burns kept his response, as DNVR put it, short, sweet and to the point.
"Never really thought about it"Avs defenseman Brent Burns
That was good news for the Avalanche, who would have had to replace Burns had he retired. Burns has played in all 410 games and every single game dating back to the 2021-22 season.
That is not an easy thing to accomplish, especially as an aging veteran. Burns is now in his early-40’s, and is on a one-year, $850k contract. I would expect this to be his last season in the NHL, though he could possibly play another two seasons if the Avalanche, or any other team, can convince him to take on lesser duties.
One thing is for sure: Burns love the game of hockey. He loves the atmosphere on the ice and in the locker room. I know that some of his teammates and former teammates have said they enjoy being around him, too. Some have even said that Burns has a childlike personality at times, which is fun to be around because it brings a different type of vibe to a locker room that can help players relax and have a lot more fun.
Burns had 12 goals and 23 assists in 82 games for the Avalanche last season. It would be awesome to see him put up another double-digit goal season, though it wouldn’t necessarily be shocking if he doesn’t accomplish that. Whatever his final point totals are in 2026-27, his value to the Avalanche goes beyond the scoresheet.
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