The Colorado Avalanche are facing a long offseason filled with tough decisions after yet another Game 7 disappointment. This time, it was the Dallas Stars who eliminated them in crushing fashion, with former Avalanche star Mikko Rantanen—traded to Dallas at the deadline—netting a hat trick in the third period of the final game. Talk about a dagger.
GM Chris MacFarland will need to regroup and reshuffle a roster that, while talented, has failed to meet expectations when it matters most. With just over $8 million in projected cap space and several pending UFAs, tough choices are coming. Here are three Colorado Avalanche players who are unlikely to return in 2025-26:
Cap Crunch and Playoff Woes Spell Changes in Colorado
Brock Nelson
Nelson was a solid pickup, bringing a veteran presence and offensive depth to the middle-six. He chipped in with four assists in the playoffs, but couldn’t find the back of the net when it counted. With his next contract likely demanding north of $5 million annually, Colorado simply can’t afford to bring him back. A return to Minnesota, his home state, or a team like Detroit could be in the cards.
Erik Johnson
The 37-year-old defenseman returned to Denver in a feel-good reunion, but his impact was minimal—suiting up for just two games in the first round. While his leadership is valued, the Avalanche need younger, faster blue-liners who can handle the grind of playoff hockey. Retirement may be on the horizon for Johnson, and it would be fitting for him to end his career where it truly blossomed.
Jonathan Drouin
Drouin’s resurgence with the Avalanche was one of the year’s best stories, but it may not have a sequel. He was quiet in the postseason, managing just three assists in seven games. With the Avalanche seeking more physicality and playoff grit, Drouin will likely hit the open market. Look for teams needing finesse and top-six playmaking to express interest.
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