The Colorado Avalanche announced a blockbuster trade on Tuesday, revealing that the franchise has shipped forward Jack Drury, depth forward Chase Bradley and a 2029 third‑round draft pick to the Nashville Predators.
Trade Details
In return, Nashville handed over forwards Fyodor Svechkov and Zachary L’Heureux, both 23‑year‑olds who were selected in the first and second rounds of their respective drafts.
Drury, who had been seeking a sizable contract extension, opted to test the market, prompting Colorado to pivot toward younger talent that can contribute immediately.
New Faces in Colorado
Svechkov, a 6‑foot left‑shot center and the 19th overall pick in the 2021 draft, spent the bulk of the 2025‑26 campaign in the NHL, logging 70 appearances and chipping in 17 points.
L’Heureux, the 27th overall selection in 2021, has compiled 87 NHL games to date and is known for an aggressive style that averages roughly one penalty minute per game.
Both players are signed for the next two seasons, with Svechkov earning $1.25 million annually and L’Heureux $875,000 per year, figures that fit comfortably under the Avalanche’s salary‑cap constraints.
Because neither is waiver‑eligible, the duo will be slotted into the opening‑night lineup, giving Colorado a fresh infusion of speed and physicality on the forward lines.
The trade reflects a broader strategy by the Avalanche to reshape their depth chart, injecting youthful energy while preserving a competitive edge in the Central Division.
Fans can expect to see Svechkov and L’Heureux given prominent roles from the first puck drop, a move that could reshape the team’s dynamics heading into the new season.