Avalanche Close Out Homestand with a Collapse, Eyes on Controversial Trade Target
The Colorado Avalanche wrapped up their seven-game homestand in the worst way possible: with a third-period meltdown that saw them surrender four unanswered goals in a 7-3 loss to the Philadelphia Flyers. After clawing back from a two-goal deficit and entering the final frame tied at three, the Avs simply unraveled - a frustrating finish to what’s been an up-and-down stretch on home ice.
But while the loss stings, the bigger buzz around the Avalanche right now is the trade rumor that’s making waves across the league - and it involves a name that still triggers strong emotions in Denver.
Avalanche Linked to Kane in Trade Talks
According to a report from Kevin Weekes, Colorado is one of the teams showing interest in Vancouver Canucks forward Evander Kane. Yes, that Evander Kane - the same player who took out Nazem Kadri during the 2022 Western Conference Final, nearly derailing the Avs’ Cup run before Kadri returned in dramatic fashion to score the game-winning goal in the Final. That moment is etched in Avs lore, and Kane’s role in that storyline hasn’t been forgotten.
Now, a few years removed from that playoff clash, the Avalanche are reportedly considering bringing Kane into the fold. From a pure hockey standpoint, it’s a curious move.
Kane is carrying a cap hit north of $5 million, and he’s struggled this season in Vancouver. Even if the Canucks retain half his salary, there are legitimate questions about whether he’s the right fit - especially given Colorado’s more pressing needs elsewhere in the lineup.
There’s also the matter of chemistry. Kane’s reputation precedes him, and while he can play a physical, agitating style that some teams covet come playoff time, the Avs have traditionally targeted players who fit their culture and system seamlessly. That’s not to say Kane couldn’t adapt, but it’s far from a sure thing.
Dallas Also in the Mix
The Dallas Stars are also reportedly in the mix for Kane, and their situation might make a little more sense. With Tyler Seguin likely sidelined for the remainder of the season, Dallas has some cap space to work with. They also moved on from Mason Marchment over the summer, and Kane could slide into that agitator role on the wing - a player who can get under opponents’ skin while contributing offensively in spurts.
For Colorado, the calculus is different. The Avs are still expected to pursue a third-line winger ahead of the trade deadline, but Kane’s fit - both financially and stylistically - feels like a stretch. There may be better, cleaner options out there who can bring depth scoring without the baggage.
Around the NHL
While the Avalanche were dealing with their own issues, the rest of the league had its share of drama, too.
In Vegas, Mitch Marner and the Golden Knights completed a season sweep of the Toronto Maple Leafs in emphatic fashion. After a wild first meeting that saw Toronto blow four separate two-goal leads, the rematch in Toronto wasn’t much better for the Leafs.
Fans booed Marner during warm-ups, only to watch him score on the first shot of the game. Vegas cruised to a 6-3 win, and Marner got the last laugh.
In Pittsburgh, Dan Muse is starting to make a name for himself in his first year as head coach. Once an under-the-radar hire, Muse has helped steer the Penguins in a positive direction, bringing structure and energy to a group that needed a jolt.
And in Boston, the Bruins have quietly turned their power play into a real weapon. After struggling with the man advantage last season, they’ve found a rhythm that’s paying dividends - a shift that could make them even more dangerous down the stretch.
What’s Next for Colorado?
The Avalanche have some soul-searching to do after a rocky homestand. The inconsistency - especially late in games - has been a recurring issue, and with the trade deadline inching closer, the front office has decisions to make.
Is Kane really the answer? Or is this just smoke in a market that’s always looking for fire?
One thing’s for sure: if Colorado does make a move, it’ll need to be the right one. Because this team still has Stanley Cup aspirations - and they can’t afford to gamble on the wrong piece.