Avs News: Big Contract & Bigger Game Ahead

The Colorado Avalanche picked up two big wins today. One off the ice, and one coming tonight on the ice. First, they locked up young forward Gavin Brindley with a two-year contract extension. Then the Avalanche get ready for one of the biggest early-season matchups in the Western Conference: Avalanche vs Ducks, two teams flying at the top of the standings.

This is exactly the kind of day that shows why Colorado stays a Cup contender. They build for the future, and they push to win right now.

Brindley Gets His Deal — And His Journey Makes It Better

Gavin Brindley didn’t take a straight path to Denver.

Drafted by Columbus

Brindley was picked 34th overall in 2023 by the Columbus Blue Jackets. They drafted him for his speed, compete, and high-energy game. He was seen as a player who might grow into a solid middle-six winger.

Traded to Colorado

This summer, Colorado made a smart hockey trade:

To Colorado: Gavin Brindley
To Columbus: Charlie Coyle + 2026 3rd-round pick

Columbus wanted a veteran forward. Colorado wanted a younger player with upside and a cheaper cap hit. The Avalanche took a gamble on Brindley’s development.

Right now, that move looks excellent for Colorado.

Brindley’s NCAA Career

He played at the University of Michigan and became one of the most reliable players in college hockey:

2022-23: 38 points in 41 games
2023-24: 53 points in 40 games
2024-25: 47 points in 37 games

He played in all situations, scored in big moments, and carried a heavy workload. Michigan coaches praised his pace and his leadership.

His Early NHL Impact

Since arriving in Colorado, Brindley has hit the ground running:

5 points in 14 games
His first NHL overtime winner
Trusted by the coaching staff
Brings speed, pressure, and smart puck decisions

He looks like a natural fit in the Avalanche system.

The Contract Details

According to PuckPedia:

2 years, $1.75M total value
AAV: $875,000
2026-27: $850K base
2027-28: $900K base
First year two-way, second year one-way
$300K guaranteed

This is exactly the type of contract good teams secure early. It gives the Avalanche value, flexibility, and a young player locked in for two years.

Game of the Season (So Far): Ducks vs Avalanche

Tonight’s Duck vs Avalanche game feels like a playoff game in November.

The Anaheim Ducks (11-3-1) and the Colorado Avalanche (10-1-5) are the two hottest teams in the Western Conference. Both teams believe they can win the West this year, and this matchup could be a preview of what is coming in April or May.

Anaheim’s Side

The Ducks are not the same team we knew a few years ago. They are young, fast, and confident. Players like Leo Carlsson and Cutter Gauthier are driving the offense. Their blue line is mobile, and their pace causes problems for teams who can’t match their speed.

Colorado’s Side

The Avalanche look like themselves again.
Nathan MacKinnon is playing like an MVP, already at 29 points. Cale Makar is the best defenseman in the world. Their depth is stronger than last season, and they are getting scoring from all over the lineup.

Even when the Avalanche are not at their best, they find ways to win.

Why This Game Matters

Both teams want to send a message.

Anaheim wants respect.
Colorado wants to remind the league who owns the Western Conference.

This is not a regular November game.
This is a measuring stick.

How the Brindley Trade Fits the Avalanche Plan

Colorado moved Charlie Coyle and a third-round pick for Brindley because they saw something. They wanted more youth, more speed, and more long-term upside in their forward group.

Now Brindley is extended for two years.
He has NHL games under his belt.
He’s contributing right away.

This trade and contract show exactly where Colorado is going:

They are building for today and tomorrow at the same time.

Three Takeaways

1. The Avalanche Won the Brindley Trade

Trading Coyle for a young winger who already fits the system is a big win. Brindley brings speed, energy, and a cap hit that helps the Avalanche stay competitive.

2. Ducks vs Avalanche Is a Real Western Showdown

Both teams are elite right now. This is a great test for both sides, and it will tell us more about the playoff picture than most early games.

3. Colorado Has the Blueprint Right

Depth. Speed. Youth. Star power.
The Avalanche continue to find the balance that keeps them near the top of the NHL.

Final Thought

A smart extension for a promising young player, and a heavyweight matchup against the Ducks.
This is a strong day for the Avalanche and their fanbase.

Which story gets you more excited — the Brindley deal or the showdown with Anaheim?