A Strategic Addition for the Avalanche
The Colorado Avalanche announced this week that forward Vinnie Hinostroza has inked a two‑year agreement that will keep him under contract through the 2027‑28 season. The move comes after the 32‑year‑old posted 18 points in 65 games during the 2025‑26 campaign, split between the Minnesota Wild and the Florida Panthers.
Hinostroza brings a blend of offensive skill and defensive reliability, having logged 41 hits and 27 blocked shots while averaging just over ten minutes of ice time per game. His career totals now sit at 179 points across multiple NHL clubs, with a personal best of 16 goals in the 2018‑19 season.
A Look Back at His Journey
Hinostroza’s path to the NHL began at the University of Notre Dame, where he earned All‑Star honors before the Chicago Blackhawks selected him in the sixth round of the 2012 draft. He honed his game in the AHL, racking up 159 points in 188 appearances and earning All‑Star recognition twice.
Internationally, the forward represented the United States at the 2016 IIHF World Championship and the 2014 World Junior Championship, adding a layer of experience that could prove valuable for Colorado’s roster depth as it pushes for playoff contention.
The Avalanche’s management sees the signing as a strategic step to reinforce its forward lines, especially after a season that saw the team navigate injuries and inconsistent scoring. Hinostroza’s versatility and proven track record align with the club’s vision of blending youthful talent with seasoned contributors.