The Colorado Avalanche have hit a bit of turbulence lately, and injuries are a big reason why. With captain Gabriel Landeskog still working his way back and top-pair defenseman Devon Toews only just returning to the lineup, the Avs haven’t quite looked like the powerhouse we’ve come to expect.
But here’s the thing: when this roster is healthy, it’s still one of the deepest and most dangerous in the NHL. Landeskog is tracking to be ready for the Olympic Games, and Toews is already back in action, giving Colorado a much-needed boost on the blue line.
Now, as the trade deadline approaches, the focus shifts to what general manager Chris MacFarland might do to solidify the roster for a deep postseason run. The buzz around the league is that the Avs are eyeing an upgrade at third-line center. Jack Drury has held down the 3C role admirably, but if Colorado wants to maximize its scoring depth-and really push the pace in the playoffs-adding another weapon down the middle could be the move that tilts the ice in their favor.
Ross Colton and Victor Olofsson have had their moments, but consistency has been elusive. That’s where a trade comes in. Let’s break down some of the most talked-about options, grouped by how much they might cost the Avs in terms of cap space and assets.
The Luxury Tier: Big Names, Big Price Tags
Let’s start at the top of the market. Two names that keep coming up: Nazem Kadri and Ryan O’Reilly. Familiar faces, playoff-tested veterans, and both would bring a serious edge to Colorado’s bottom six.
Kadri, of course, played a key role in the Avs’ 2022 Stanley Cup run. He’s still producing, but at $7 million per year and with three more seasons left on his deal, it’s a tough fit unless Calgary is willing to eat some salary. He’s also 35 now, and that kind of long-term commitment carries risk.
O’Reilly, on the other hand, might be the cleaner fit. He’s got one year left on his deal at $4.5 million and still brings value as a defensively sound, faceoff-dominant center.
He’s not the same offensive threat he once was, but in a third-line role, he doesn’t have to be. What he does bring-grit, leadership, and playoff pedigree-is exactly what Colorado could use come spring.
The Change of Scenery Tier: Solid Veterans Looking for a Fit
Ryan Strome is another name to watch. At 32, he’s been nudged down the Ducks’ depth chart thanks to the emergence of younger talent like Leo Carlsson and Mason McTavish.
Strome still has game-he’s responsible in all three zones and can win draws-but his $5 million cap hit is a hurdle. He’s also a pending UFA, which makes him a short-term rental.
Anaheim might be reluctant to deal him, especially with Carlsson currently sidelined, but if the Avs can make the money work, Strome could be a stabilizing presence.
Jesperi Kotkaniemi is a bit more of a wildcard. He hasn’t quite clicked in Carolina’s system, but there’s talent there.
At $4.82 million annually for five more years, he’s a longer-term bet, but one that could pay off. Kotkaniemi has the offensive instincts to thrive in Colorado’s up-tempo style, and a change of scenery might unlock the potential that’s been buried under the Hurricanes’ defense-first approach.
Pairing him with guys like Colton or Olofsson could create some intriguing matchups in the bottom six.
The Cost-Effective Tier: Value Plays with Upside
This is where things get interesting-and potentially more realistic for a team like Colorado that’s tight against the cap. Targeting players with sub-$4 million cap hits opens the door for additional moves, maybe even bolstering the blue line with a depth defenseman.
Boone Jenner is a name that jumps out. He’s been the heart and soul of the Blue Jackets for years, and while Columbus is reportedly trying to extend him, there’s no guarantee a deal gets done.
If he becomes available, the Avs should be all over it. Jenner brings leadership, physicality, and a solid two-way game-all at a $3.75 million cap hit.
He’s also a pending free agent, which could keep the acquisition cost manageable. In Colorado’s system, with more offensive support around him, Jenner could thrive.
Then there’s Scott Laughton. He’s not flashy, but he’s the kind of under-the-radar addition that can push a contender over the top.
Think Blake Coleman or Barclay Goodrow during Tampa Bay’s Cup runs-gritty, dependable, and capable of swinging momentum with a strong shift. Laughton may have lost a bit of his scoring touch, but he’d be a strong fit in Colorado’s third-line center role, especially when the games tighten up in the postseason.
Where the Avs Stand Now
The Avalanche are notoriously tight-lipped when it comes to roster moves, so we may not hear much until something actually goes down. But make no mistake-this team is all-in on a Stanley Cup run this year. With a top-tier core and one of the league’s most dangerous offenses when healthy, adding the right piece at 3C could be the final puzzle piece.
Whether it’s a splashy name like O’Reilly or a savvy value play like Jenner or Laughton, the Avs have options. And if they make the right move, they’ll be even tougher to stop come playoff time.