Salary cap complications may be forcing the Colorado Avalanche to trade away one of the top defensemen in the NHL.
Top Priority: Securing Toews
Cale Makar shines as a standout player for the Avalanche, but Devon Toews is equally important, often overlooked. Toews adds balance with his strong defensive skills and impressive stats. He complements Makar's star power seamlessly. As Toews approaches unrestricted free agency, it's crucial for Colorado to keep him on the team.
Securing Toews might come at a high cost, though. According to The Athletic, his next contract could range from $8 million to $10.3 million, potentially over a long term. Despite approaching 30, investing in Toews seems wise for the Avalanche's future success.
Navigating Future Finances
Despite a rising salary cap, the Avalanche must make tough decisions soon. Star players like Mikko Rantanen, Bowen Byram, and Alexander Georgiev become free agents in 2025. The team wants to retain its talents, but financial constraints are a challenge.
Sam Girard might be traded due to these limitations. While valuable to the team, reallocating his $5-million contract could be necessary to keep the core group that drives the team's achievements. A trade involving Girard is also a possibility this season.
By addressing these challenges and managing their finances effectively, the Colorado Avalanche aims to build a sustainable path to more success. This would further solidify their chance of becoming a dynasty.