Brent Burns Signs with Colorado Avalanche
In a surprising move, veteran defenseman Brent Burns has decided to continue his hockey career by signing a one-year deal with the Colorado Avalanche, as announced on Wednesday. Although the financial specifics of the contract have not yet been disclosed, the 40-year-old player brings a wealth of experience with him to Colorado after spending the last three years with the Carolina Hurricanes.
Career Highlights
Prior to his time in Carolina, Burns enjoyed a long and successful tenure with the San Jose Sharks, where he not only became a fan favorite but also secured the Norris Trophy in 2017, awarded to the league’s best defenseman.
Recent Performance
During the recent NHL season, Burns showcased his skills over a complete 82-game schedule, notching six goals and 23 assists. He also contributed in the playoffs, completing 15 games with one goal and four assists. The Hurricanes will now be relieved of his $5.36 million cap hit after he concluded an extensive eight-year contract worth $64 million that he originally signed with San Jose in 2016. This also means that the Sharks can officially say farewell to the $2.64 million they had retained from that trade.
Value to the Avalanche
While Burns may not be the offensive powerhouse he once was in his prime, he remains a valuable asset, providing a right-handed shot that can facilitate puck movement and absorb significant minutes on the ice; last season, he averaged nearly 21 minutes in ice time per game. Notably, he is in exceptional physical shape, holding the record for the longest active streak for consecutive games played at 925. This remarkable achievement positions him just two seasons shy of surpassing Phil Kessel, the current record holder at 1,064.
Career Statistics
Over his extensive 21-year career, Burns has amassed impressive statistics, including 261 goals, 641 assists, and a total of 910 points across his stints with Minnesota, San Jose, and Carolina. With 130 playoff games under his belt, including one in the Stanley Cup Final during the Sharks’ run in 2016, Burns brings not just skill but also invaluable playoff experience to the Avalanche roster.
