3 Colorado Avalanche Who Won't Be Back Next Season
It was quite the turn of events after an almost record-setting regular season, but the Colorado Avalanche were swept by the Vegas Golden Knights in the Western Conference Final. There's going to be significant roster changes coming for the Avs, as general manager Chris MacFarland will be busy this offseason.
Looking ahead to next year, here's there Avalanche players who aren't expected back with the club next season:
Brent Burns
The Avs were trying hard to win Burns the illusive Stanley Cup, and came up short. It does sound like many are expecting to see Burns retire this offseason. It's been a wild ride throughout Burns' career as he was drafted as a forward, moved to defence, and eventually won a Norris Trophy. Not bad for a guy who played goalie growing up as a kid. Could the Hall of Fame be next?
My heart breaks for Burnzie. Thought for sure he was going to have his Ray Bourque moment. #GoAvsGo
— Bench Boss (@BenchBossx2) May 27, 2026
Is this the last we’ll see of Brent Burns? pic.twitter.com/QvRtRHLIzq
Ross Colton
Colton's name is out there and he's available on the trade market. The defensive minded center is going to get priced out of Denver this summer and with the Avs not having any draft picks in the first three rounds of the draft next month in Buffalo, don't be surprised to see either a second, or third-round pick included in the trade package. Colton is signed for next season at $4 million AAV, and owns a 12-team no-trade list.
Valeri Nichushkin
Don't be surprised to see the Avalanche dangling the Russian winger on the trade market. Nichushkin had a horrible postseason and only scored two goals and four points in 12 games and saw his role diminish throughout the playoffs. He has four years left at $6.1 million AAV and it could be time for MacFarland to get out of his contract and create some more cap flexibility.
Photo credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images
