First off, this is assuming Landy is back to start the year next year. Obviously, if he isn't, it changes everything. Literally.
The Avs cap crunch is real, and it is no secret something has to give. Looking over the options, simply see Colton being the least evasive to the line up. Lehkonen is an option, but moving a legit top 6 forward with a game like his? Tough. Sets things back. Girard? Sure. You could, but being only 25 and has been solid for the Avs in his tenure, replacing him is, well, about $5 million. Wood? I totally would, but it doesn't move the financial needle enough. So, we are back to Colton. Tough.
Signings:
Mittlestadt: you don't move Byram without committing long term. It is that simple. Given his track record in the league, and his last couole seasons the number was tough to gauge. Settled in at $6.25 million with term for a couole reasons. 1. He has never topped 70 points. 2. The Avs are a left contender. 3. If he is wanting $7 million+, that is money Buffalo had..... and if the Sabres weren't willing, it gives us an idea of what his market value is.
Stenlund: just a gritty and effective 4th liner. Contract very manageable. Underrated imo.
De Haan: a no frills vet D that can contribute positively on the bottom pair. Again, contract friendly.
Jones: I bring him back as the #7 D. Only 26, I still think there is something there. Can push De Haan or Malinski (what you want). Could go with another vet here, but I think that depends on where Behrens is in his development..... and if he signs.
Robertson: well, I made the move, so I sign him lol. See more opportunity for him in Colorado, as Bednar uses his bench more. Cap friendly, young, and along with Kovalenko (think think he makes the cut) could make for an interesting 3rd line.
Side Notes
1. Provestov or Annunen: pick one. One makes it one doesn't. The cap space isn't there to do anything differently.
2. Kovalenko: yes, I think he makes the team. Has been great in the KHL, and if it wasn't for an injury, may have seen time with the Avs now. That was the plan from.what I understand. And if that was the plan, it is reasonable to think the plan is he is thee in 2024-25.
Overall:
Moving Colton is a tough decision, but in terms of cap management and icing a contender, I simply don't see another option. Where I am most certain a number of Avs fans will trash the deal I proposed, the overall line up, in my opinion, keeps the Avs in the Cup conversation - which any move made needs to be the result.
1. Cap relief. Essentially getting two very viable NHL forwards for the cap hitnif one. Let's sarts there.
2. Kämpf: an excellent defensive forward signed for the next 3 years. Has some offensive skill, but admittedly a small step back from Colton - 25-30 potential (twice) points vs 40. Great on the PK. Above 50% with faceoffs.
3. Robertson: yeah, quite polarizing amongst the CF crowd. But, tracking for around 40 points with sheltered minutes. Quick with compete in his game. Has had injury issues, but has remained healthy this season. Young, contract control. Extension given his sheltered minutes more than affordable. Solid top 9 forward with top 6 potential..... that has always been there.
Avs fans may not like this, Ihave read numerous threads where Colton isn't the guy they move.
$4 million for a 3C is pricey..... and the Avs are up against it. Many may see a deal for "spare parts". Don't see it that way at all. Both players are very serviceable, with their own skill sets. A sum is greater than the parts deal. Fills holes for the Avs without taking too much from the lineup.
Honestly, given the Avs options, this Colton maybe the least evasive option.
I see a reasonably priced 2C, which moves JT to the wing. Creates centre depth. Adds and element of real grit to the position that is currently lacking. A 200 foot game, improving overall team defense. Solid with faceoffs.
Generally a 35-40 point player, can see an opportunity for more playing with Nylander and JT. The garbage guy in front of the net. A player with a clear cut defined role on that unit, no confusion on what that is.
There are UFA options..... but I feel that will be more in cap hit and term. Yes, Leafs give uo viable assets for what is a slight upgrade, but I see it being much easier managing cap.
Love it as a Leafs fan and props to you for providing some thoughtful reasoning. Having said that, it seems like Colorado committed heavily to Colton and won't sell him for pennies on the dollar
I don't necessarily disagree with trading Colton and I don't think your logic here is bad but I hope they'd look for something a little better than this or they'd just make space by trading him then try to sign someone in UFA they believe could do the job for a year or two. Colton (who is definitely not a 2C or the Avs would have solved that problem without trading Bo) may seem "expensive" but the going rate for 3C's is about $4M; Detroit is paying two 3C's over $5M, LOL.
I don’t know that I love the trade. If cmac made this trade I would trust that the scouts saw something and felt that there was room for improvement. I just don’t know that kampf is someone that I would target.
I’d also like to keep one of the deadline acquisitions if possible.
Annunan would be my backup.
McDavid, Connor
$250,000)
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