Colorado Avalanche might lose Jonathan Drouin to a division rival in free agency.
The Colorado Avalanche face several decisions regarding their 2024 free agents, notably Jonathan Drouin, who might leave despite the team’s efforts. This is often the reality in professional sports, where players who exceed expectations often secure more lucrative contracts elsewhere.
Previously, I believed the Avalanche might retain Drouin at a reduced rate, but other teams may offer him more than the Avalanche can afford, making it easy to lure him away. It’s a complicated situation.
The Avalanche might opt to re-sign their more affordable players and let Drouin go. The uncertainty surrounding Valeri Nichushkin’s return complicates matters further. While the team might welcome him back, there could be lingering trust issues.
The critical question is who to re-sign while staying under the salary cap. The Avalanche need to account for Nichushkin’s salary, hoping he returns during the regular season, which is six months away. Planning this far ahead is challenging for a team close to making a deeper playoff run.
Jonathan Drouin could be lost to the Nashville Predators, who might outbid the Avalanche for his services. The Predators, who finished fourth in the West, could lose several free-agent forwards and might see weakening the Avalanche as a strategic move.
Drouin, previously under the radar, has significantly improved this season, rising to the top line with Nathan MacKinnon and exceeding expectations.
If it were up to me, I would secure Drouin with an extension that balances affordability with his satisfaction. Although the uncertainty around Nichushkin complicates the situation, the Avalanche must plan for the future.
