The Colorado Avalanche have made a significant move to solidify their forward core, signing center Casey Mittelstadt to a three-year contract extension worth a total of $17.25 million, carrying an average annual value (AAV) of $5.75 million.
Mittelstadt, 25, joined the Avalanche at the trade deadline last season in a high-profile swap that sent defenseman Bowen Byram to the Buffalo Sabres. The move proved fruitful for both teams, as Mittelstadt seamlessly integrated into Colorado’s system, adding a scoring punch alongside established stars Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen.
In 80 games split between Buffalo and Colorado, Mittelstadt posted a career-best 18 goals and 67 points, showcasing his offensive potential. His contributions extended into the postseason, where he chipped in with three goals and nine points in 11 playoff games before the Avalanche’s second-round exit.
Originally drafted eighth overall by the Sabres in the talent-rich 2017 NHL Draft, Mittelstadt has steadily developed into a reliable two-way center. Over his 357-game career, he has amassed 66 goals and 196 points. This extension not only rewards his recent performance but also reflects the Avalanche’s confidence in his continued growth and ability to play a key role in their championship aspirations.
The deal provides the Avalanche with cost certainty at a crucial position and allows Mittelstadt to focus on further elevating his game in a winning environment. While the price tag might raise some eyebrows, it’s a gamble the Avalanche are willing to take on a player with the potential to blossom into a top-line center in the coming years.
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