I think the Avs would be thrilled if Naz and Kuemper took those contracts. I think the odds of NAK getting anything other than a 1 yr league minimum deal from the Avs are about the same as me getting an NHL contract. Also if Kaut isn’t traded he’s on this team next year there is no reason for him to be in the AHL anymore.

So if Aubé-Kubel isn’t signing league minimum just no qualify him and move Kaut on the 4th line

I can’t see Kuemper getting more than 5.5M and more than 4 years. He hasn’t been healthy enough to command 6M or a long term contract. He is 31 yo too

Kuempers contract is more linked to the playoffs than anything. If they win the cup I think he could rightly ask for a 4x$6M deal. I think people forget NAK was claimed off waivers, with a fully healthy roster in the playoffs he could find himself the odd man out.

What’s your opinion with Byram-Girard and signing a UFA to play with EJ on the bottom pairing ? Quality bottom pairing dman this offseason left handed are Kulak and Kulan IMO
I think Kulak will command over 2M, he was having a great year in MTL and he is playing good in EDM as well

Fully healthy and this is my opinion only next year the pairings should be
Byram Makar - when they played together they dominated both ends of the ice.
Toew Girard - Girard is a completely different player when he plays with a guy that can move the puck as well. Plus it allows the Avs if they want to always have Toews or Makar on the ice in crunch time.

Assuming the Avs don’t move EJ (no guarantee) they will go the low priced route but I think instead of going outside they would just bring Jack Johnson back. The big question though is what they do with Manson they gave up a pretty big package for him, and I think he will get better the more familiar he gets.

But yeah I think both those guys will be in demand because they are solid 3rd pairing guys.

Those signings are best case scenarios for COL.
Kaut needs serious NHL stint next year.
Id prioritize moving E Johnson contract or Comphers contract and finding 3.5-4mil to resign Manson (use the 1.85 from Kukan towards Manson)