The Colorado Avalanche are making moves in the college free agent market, bringing in defenseman Gustav Stjernberg. They've inked him to a two-year, entry-level deal set to start in the 2026-27 season. For now, Stjernberg will join the Colorado Eagles in the AHL to finish out the current season.
At 23, Stjernberg is wrapping up an impressive stint at Bowling Green State University, where he served as an alternate captain. This season, he tallied six goals and four assists over 25 games. His collegiate career saw him amass 14 goals and 23 assists in 86 games, showcasing his steady development on the ice.
Before his college days, Stjernberg made his mark in the USHL with the Des Moines Buccaneers, posting eight goals and 12 assists in 62 games. Standing tall at 6'4" and over 200 pounds, he's known for his physical presence and has accumulated 173 penalty minutes during his college career.
As for the Avalanche, they’re sitting pretty at the top of the NHL standings, leading the race for the Presidents’ Trophy with 97 points through 64 games. With a five-point lead over the Dallas Stars, Colorado looks poised for a strong finish to the season. Stjernberg’s addition could be a strategic move to bolster their depth for the future.