Sam Malinski Agrees to a Contract Extension! Who Needs to Step Up in the Upcoming Back to Back?

Colorado Avalanche secure their future blue line with a four-year, $4.75 million AAV contract extension for Sam Malinski, signaling rising trust in the standout defenseman’s role. Is Malinski set to take over as a long-term second-pairing mainstay alongside names like Cale Makar and Devon Toews? Chris Micieli and Zach Pearson break down the Avalanche’s bold roster move, debating the impact of the contract’s no-trade clause, what it means for Sam Girard’s future, and how Colorado manages its cap for upcoming UFA negotiations.

Key Avalanche storylines include the imminent returns of Gabriel Landeskog and Devon Toews, Keaton Middleton’s call-up, and roster adjustments ahead of back-to-back Canadian matchups against the Ottawa Senators and Montreal Canadiens. Plus, the hosts spotlight Artturi Lehkonen’s scoring issues and Valeri Nichushkin’s recent cold streak, pondering which Avs’ player is primed for a breakout game. Don’t miss this strategic look at Colorado’s playoff aspirations!

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11 comments

  1. The Avs signed Samuel Girard to a more expensive contract like 6 years ago. So to pay Malinski less than that today sounds like a win

  6. You can argue tiny details and nitpick a bit on whether or not the term, number, no trade clause, or whatever is good, but it's not overpriced, it's not overly long, and he fits the team well, so at the end of the day, Yes to Sam in Denver. 4 more years!

  7. The Avs will actually only have 5M next year because Burns' bonuses (3M) will be applied next year. And I'm expecting Drury will take a large chunk of that.
    Don't hate the Malinski contract, but I thought they should have signed him longer term on the last contract

  9. Malinski should be making more than Girard based on performance. With this Malinski extension, and Makar's extension coming, and Girard's contract ending CANNOT WAIT for Girard to get shipped out.

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