Avalanche Trade Ilya Solovyov to Penguins, Signaling Potential Blue Line Shake-Up
The Colorado Avalanche made a quiet but telling move on Tuesday, trading defenseman Ilya Solovyov to the Pittsburgh Penguins during practice. On the surface, it’s a depth shift. But dig a little deeper, and it’s clear this could be the first domino in a larger roster reshuffle as the Avs prepare for the stretch run.
Solovyov, who had been the team’s No. 7 defenseman, exits after just three months with the organization. He was one of six healthy blueliners on the roster at the time of the trade, and Colorado is expected to call up Jack Ahcan to fill the vacancy. Ahcan, a puck-moving left-shot defenseman with NHL experience, brings a slightly different skill set, which could hint at the type of look the Avs are going for on the back end.
This move feels familiar. Think back to January 2024, when Colorado dealt Kurtis MacDermid well ahead of the trade deadline.
That wasn’t just a cap-clearing move-it was a sign of things to come. The Solovyov trade has a similar vibe.
It’s a contract off the books, a player no longer in the rotation, and a roster spot opened up for something (or someone) else.
The Avalanche have been operating with a strong top-four defensive core, but depth on the left side has been a bit of a question mark. Don’t be surprised if this deal is a prelude to a more impactful addition on the blue line-specifically a left-shot defenseman who can handle bottom-pair minutes or step up in case of injury.
Around the League: Blue Line Movement Continues
Colorado isn’t the only team making tweaks on defense.
In Boston, the Bruins placed a depth left-shot defenseman on waivers-another move that may seem minor on paper but could open the door for a roster shake-up or a young player getting a look. With the playoff race heating up, every roster spot matters, and teams are beginning to maneuver accordingly.
Meanwhile, in New Jersey, the Devils are still looking to move one of their more expensive defensemen. Cap flexibility has become a premium in today’s NHL, and New Jersey appears motivated to shed some salary on the back end-especially if they’re looking to bolster other areas of the roster before the deadline.
Out west, Vegas Golden Knights GM Kelly McCrimmon recently addressed the acquisition of Rasmus Andersson. While Andersson brings a strong two-way game, McCrimmon’s comments hinted at a broader strategy to solidify the Golden Knights’ defensive identity heading into the postseason.
What’s Next for the Avalanche?
For Colorado, the Solovyov trade isn’t about what they gave up-it’s about what they’re setting up. With the trade deadline still weeks away, this move gives the front office more flexibility and signals that they’re already thinking a few steps ahead. Whether it’s a veteran addition or a younger piece with upside, expect the Avs to stay active as they fine-tune the roster for another deep playoff push.
Bottom line: this is likely just the beginning.