The Colorado Avalanche’s 2025-26 Season Overview
The Colorado Avalanche’s 2025-26 season saw them dominate the NHL standings, clinching the prestigious Presidents’ Trophy. However, the excitement quickly turned to disappointment as they faced an early playoff exit, prompting the organization to reevaluate several players as they prepare for the upcoming offseason.
Player Evaluations
Zakhar Bardakov (Forward)
In his first full season with the Avalanche, Bardakov participated in 60 games and recorded one goal along with nine assists, primarily filling a depth role. Averaging just over seven minutes of ice time per game, he managed 35 shots but had a disappointing faceoff win rate of 42.4%. Despite these numbers, Bardakov’s performance showed promise, particularly during periods when injuries opened up opportunities for increased playing time.
Nick Blankenburg (Defenseman)
Acquired mid-season from the Nashville Predators, Blankenburg made his mark in 12 games with Colorado, netting two goals and one assist. Standing at 5 feet 9 inches and weighing 177 pounds, he served as a depth defenseman, contributing modestly to the team’s offensive efforts.
Brent Burns (Defenseman) – Unrestricted Free Agent
Burns’ 2025–26 campaign was marked by consistency as he played all 82 games and accumulated 12 goals alongside 23 assists. His durability is notable, as he has maintained a streak of 328 consecutive games since last missing a match in 2020. While his turnover numbers exceeded 100, Burns is highly valued not only for his on-ice contributions but also for his veteran leadership and energetic spirit. Nathan MacKinnon humorously credited Burns for his longevity, revealing that his ample sleeping habits might be a key factor in his performance:
“He sleeps a lot… like a big bear. He’ll nap from 3 PM to 6 PM and then sleep another ten hours.”
Discussions of Burns potentially returning for the 2026-27 season have already started, especially as he aims to chase Phil Kessel’s record for consecutive games played.
Jack Drury (Forward)
Drury showcased his versatility this season, playing in various forward roles and amassing 10 goals and 17 assists in 82 contests. He excelled in faceoffs, boasting a win rate of 58.1%, placing him among the top players in that category in the league. Midseason adjustments caused him to transition to a fourth-line center position after the addition of Nic Roy. Despite receiving multiple offers from other teams, he chose to stay in Colorado for the time being, raising questions about his future with the franchise as he performed admirably in the postseason.
Joel Kiviranta (Forward) – Unrestricted Free Agent
Kiviranta played in 51 games during the latest season, tallying three goals and six assists. His performance showed significant improvement over the years, especially from the previous season where he scored a career-high 16 goals. With high percentages in goals-for and Corsi For this year, many speculate it’s unlikely that Kiviranta will return for the next season, given the Avalanche’s roster decisions.
Brett Kulak (Defenseman) – Restricted Free Agent
Kulak joined the Avalanche through a trade involving Samuel Girard and made impactful contributions with three assists during his 27 games. With an average ice time exceeding 19 minutes, he played alongside several defensive partners and notably scored a critical series-winning goal in the playoffs against the Minnesota Wild, showcasing his value to the team.
Looking Ahead
As the Avalanche approach a crucial offseason, questions loom about which players will be re-signed, traded, or released based on their recent performances. The choices they make will undoubtedly shape the team’s direction moving forward, as they look to bounce back from their disappointing playoff exit.
