The Offseason Landscape
The Colorado Avalanche are gearing up for an offseason that could reshape the franchise as they navigate a series of critical decisions.
At the center of the conversation is star defenseman Cale Makar, whose contract negotiations are expected to conclude before the start of the 2026‑27 campaign, with a potential extension that could reach as high as $18 million per year.
Forward Jack Drury, still arbitration‑eligible and coming off a promising playoff run, remains a question mark for the club, leaving his long‑term fit uncertain.
Prospect Ilya Nabokov, in the final year of his entry‑level contract, adds another layer of uncertainty, as the team weighs whether to retain, trade, or let him walk.
Colorado also holds eight picks in the 2026 draft, a resource that could be leveraged to bolster the prospect pool or packaged in trade discussions.
The departure of general manager Chris MacFarland has opened the door for front‑office reshuffling, with speculation about possible adjustments to the coaching staff and a broader roster overhaul.
Looking Forward
While the exact moves remain undecided, the organization is poised to blend internal development with calculated external acquisitions, aiming to preserve its competitive edge in the Western Conference.