Brent Burns turned heads at Colorado Avalanche training camp for a reason nobody saw coming: the longtime defenseman looked almost unrecognizable.
When Burns arrived for the team’s first media availability, the familiar image was gone. The huge beard that’s been part of his identity for more than a decade had been trimmed down, and the gap-toothed grin had been replaced by brand new front teeth. For a player whose look became as famous as his game, it was a jolt.
Burns’ beard has been a hockey calling card for years. He started growing it more than ten years ago, and it became such a part of his persona that it even led to a Chia Pet giveaway in 2016 during his time with the San Jose Sharks. So when the clean-cut version showed up in camp, the reaction was immediate.
“He looks like some rookie I don’t recognize,” joked Burns’ agent, Ron Salcer.
The makeover may have caught everyone’s eye, but Burns is still doing what he’s always done: stacking up miles in a long NHL career. Now 41, he’s entering his 23rd season and has played more than 1,000 consecutive games. He sits 57 games shy of Phil Kessel’s all-time record of 1,064 straight appearances.
He’s also still producing. Last season with the Avalanche, Burns put up 12 goals and 35 points in 82 games. Over his career, the 2017 Norris Trophy winner has collected 273 goals, 945 points and 887 penalty minutes.
One thing that still eludes him is the Stanley Cup.
Burns and Colorado will get another shot at it when the 2026-27 season opens on Sept. 30, with the Avalanche hosting the Los Angeles Kings. Whether the new look lasts that long is anyone’s guess, but for now it’s the biggest story around camp.
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Winnipegs decision allows the team to withhold payment because of the breach of contract, and Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff is expected to speak with reporters to provide more detail. Until then, the bigger question for Colorado is whether this situation stays a disciplinary matter or turns into something far more consequential, with trade chatter and even contract termination suddenly part of the backdrop. [Read more 🡒]
Avalanche Face A Roster Squeeze They May Not Escape Cleanly
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A few of those players look more likely to end up in the minors, while others carry enough value or uncertainty that they could draw interest if exposed. With contract status, prior waiver history and the clubs current depth all factoring into the decision, this is the kind of roster squeeze that can force a tough call even before opening night settles everything else. [Read more 🡒]