The Colorado Avalanche made some waves this week with a notable roster move, trading defenseman Sam Girard and a draft pick to the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for Brett Kulak. Both players hit the ice for their new teams on Wednesday, marking the start of a new chapter for each.
With this trade, the Avalanche have freed up over $9 million in cap space, sparking plenty of speculation about their next move. Ryan O’Reilly and Nazem Kadri are among the hot names linked to Colorado, but a new contender has emerged: Canucks defenseman Tyler Myers.
According to Rick Dhaliwal from CHEKTV in Vancouver, the Avalanche are showing interest in Myers. Standing at a towering 6’8” and weighing 229 pounds, Myers would instantly become the biggest player on the Avs' roster, out-sizing even the formidable Brent Burns.
While Myers may not bring a lot of offensive firepower-a quality the Avalanche typically value in their defensemen-his defensive stats speak volumes. With 65 hits and 91 blocked shots this season, Myers excels in areas crucial for a third-pairing defenseman. His physical presence and defensive prowess could be exactly what the Avalanche need.
Why Tyler Myers Could Be a Smart Addition for the Avalanche
Myers is known for his penalty-killing abilities, a skill that would bolster the Avalanche's already impressive penalty kill unit. Adding him to the mix could allow the team to strategically rest key players, preserving their energy for the playoff push.
Moreover, Myers would provide valuable depth on the blue line. The Avalanche are already well-stocked in that area, but having someone like Myers as a backup could be invaluable if injuries occur or if lineup adjustments are needed. His presence would also offer the flexibility to rest players like Burns, ensuring the team stays fresh as the season grinds on.
In the NHL, depth is a critical asset, especially as the playoffs loom. The Avalanche are in an enviable position with their current roster and cap space, and bringing in Myers could be a savvy move to keep their lineup robust and ready for the challenges ahead.