Evaluating the Colorado Avalanche’s 2025 NHL Entry Draft Selections
As the 2025-26 NHL season approaches its midpoint, it’s an opportune moment to evaluate the performance of the Colorado Avalanche’s selections from the 2025 NHL Entry Draft. The Avalanche have historically had mixed success with their prospects, often trading away talent to bolster their roster for competitive seasons or drafting players who face significant hurdles to secure a spot on the main team.
Draft Overview
In the 2025 draft, Colorado focused on only three players, having traded away most of their picks prior to the event. Let’s delve into the progress these prospects are making in their respective leagues this season.
Prospect Performances
Round 3: Francesco Dell’Elce (Defender, UMass, NCAA)
The Avalanche’s first pick of the draft was made in the third round, where they chose Francesco Dell’Elce, a promising defenseman from UMass, who had a solid rookie year with 24 points in 2024. Standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 181 pounds, Dell’Elce is known for his dynamic skating and puck movement abilities, which contributed to his offensive play. According to insights from EliteProspects, his skating agility and ability to read the game under pressure make him a formidable player.
Dell’Elce has continued to impress in his second collegiate season, amassing three goals and 10 assists for 13 points in just 20 games. Notably, all three of his goals have come as game-winners, making him a key player for UMass, which currently stands at a 10-10-0 record. He also ranks third on his team for blocked shots with 24, showcasing his two-way capability.
Round 4: Linus Funck (Defender, London Knights, OHL)
Following up with their second pick, the Avalanche chose Linus Funck in the fourth round. Prior to his draft, Funck was playing in Sweden’s J20 Nationell league, where he excelled as one of the top-scoring defensemen. Now competing in the Canadian Hockey League with the London Knights, Funck has registered three goals and 10 assists over 39 games this season.
Funck, who stands tall at 6 feet 3 inches and weighs 194 pounds, is recognized for his physical defensive style and impressive reach, which aids in thwarting opposing forwards. His performance has contributed to the Knights, who thus far hold a record of 23-15-3 and sit in a competitive position within the Western Conference. As the youngest pick from Colorado in the draft at 18, Funck will benefit from further development in North America’s hockey landscape.
Round 7: Nolan Roed (Forward, St. Cloud State University, NCAA)
The Avalanche concluded their draft choices with Nolan Roed, a versatile forward who has begun his collegiate journey at St. Cloud State University. Previously, Roed led the Tri-City Storm in the USHL with an impressive 60 points in his last season, showcasing his ability as both a goal-scorer and playmaker.
Now in his first season at St. Cloud, he has managed to score two goals along with nine assists in 22 games. Despite concerns about his size at 5 feet 11 inches, Roed’s agility and skills allow him to navigate the ice effectively. EliteProspects acknowledges his potential to excel as he matures, emphasizing his ability to create offensive opportunities.
Conclusion
As the Avalanche navigate their successful run in the NHL, the depth of their prospect pool has diminished due to their competitive trades and successes. However, the early promise shown by these three players from the 2025 draft indicates a glimmer of hope for the future. With several picks remaining ahead of the trade deadline, it will be interesting to see how the Avalanche approach potential moves to continue their championship aspirations while nurturing their developing talents.
