NHL Trade Preview: Colorado Avalanche Team to Watch on 2025-26 Trade Market

The Colorado Avalanche are once again expected to be one of the stronger teams in the Western Conference. After what was a very entertaining and interesting season in 2024-25, big changes were felt throughout the roster, with Mikko Rantanen eventually shipped to the Carolina Hurricanes.

Looking ahead to next season, the Avalanche have some major decisions to make. Martin Necas, the prized return in the Rantanen deal, is a pending unrestricted free agent. Necas is owed $6.5 million against the cap next season, and in 30 regular season games with the Avs, put up 28 points. The speedy winger would chip in with one goal and four assists in seven Stanley Cup Playoff games. 

So far, there's been limited chatter about a potential extension for Necas to remain in Colorado. It sounds like general manager Chris MacFarland is going to play it safe when it comes to committing, and will likely see how Necas performs with a full season with the Avalanche. 

The Avs also have Samuel Girard on the back end who has been linked to several trade discussions throughout the past year. With Bowen Byram dealt, many felt it opened up the door for Girard to play a major role on Colorado's blue line, but unfortunately, some inconsistent play has limited Girard from taking the next step. Keep an eye on him as trade talks will continue.

Colorado doesn't have a first, second, or third-round draft pick in 2026, so it's going to be very difficult for them to add ahead of the trade deadline next season. It's likely going to be prospect heavy packages should they make a splash, or they could flip Necas for draft picks if the team is not battling for a playoff spot, which at this point, seems unlikely.

There's also the elephant in the room - Sidney Crosby. If the Pittsburgh Penguins struggle out of the gate, Crosby's future in Pittsburgh is going to once again, be a topic of conversation. If he's approached about a trade, the Avs will be among the top-2 choices for the future hall-of-famer, along with likely the Montreal Canadiens. 

Lots to follow in Colorado, as they are not in an ideal spot when it comes to their trade potential for next season.

Photo credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images