The Colorado Avalanche’s annual Top 25 Under 25 list continues to shine a light on emerging talent, and this year’s edition features a notable entry: defenseman Alex Gagne, a 23‑year‑old left‑handed blueliner who has cracked the No. 20 spot. The recognition reflects not only his statistical contributions but also the intangible qualities he brings to the team’s defensive core.
A Defensive Prospect on the Rise
Gagne’s journey to the Avalanche organization began in the 2021 NHL Draft, when the Tampa Bay Lightning selected him in the sixth round. Although he never signed a contract with the Lightning, the Colorado Eagles of the American Hockey League gave him a platform to develop, signing him after a standout collegiate career at the University of New Hampshire.
At New Hampshire, Gagne served as team captain, leading both on‑ice and off‑ice. Standing at 6‑5 and leveraging a long reach, he carved out a reputation as a physical defender who excels on the penalty kill. His defensive instincts and willingness to block shots have made him a reliable presence in high‑pressure situations.
In the 2025 AHL season, Gagne appeared in 58 games for the Colorado Eagles, posting a modest 1 goal and 12 assists but adding significant value in playoff action. He suited up for all 17 games during the Eagles’ Western Conference Finals run, contributing crucial defensive minutes that helped the team push deep into the postseason.
A late‑season wrist injury sidelined him for roughly a month, yet he returned to the lineup and continued to play through discomfort, underscoring his resilience. Avalanche coaches have been closely monitoring his progress, and the organization views him as a candidate for a potential NHL call‑up in the 2026‑27 season, especially as the team evaluates depth on the blue line.
While Gagne is not known for prolific scoring, his high hockey IQ, physicality and penalty‑kill proficiency offer the Avalanche a complementary piece to their defensive roster. If he can stay healthy and continue to refine his game, his ascent could solidify a key role for the franchise in the coming years.