Jonathan Drouin's Time in Colorado May Be Done Imminently
Photo credit: Colorado Hockey Now
Despite a rocky start to the season, it can be said that he ultimately succeeded in his gamble.
The former CH player truly experienced a renaissance with the Avalanche this season. He accumulated 41 points, including 12 goals, in 66 games, in addition to playing no less than an average of 17min29sec per game. Considering he only cost the Colorado club $825K, it can be said that they got a real bargain.
However, this bargain could end up being very costly for them in the near future. Drouin, who will become an unrestricted free agent on July 1st next, could certainly be entitled to a nice salary increase. An increase that could pose a problem for GM Chris MacFarland who might be forced to let the 28-year-old player go.
"I don't know if the Avalanche can afford to keep Jonathan Drouin after this year, but whatever his salary, he's earned it.
The growth of his overall game has been impressive to watch." - Evan Rawal
To date, the Avalanche have a cap space of $11.325M for next season, but need to sign, including Drouin, 10 unrestricted free agents, and one restricted free agent in
Casey Mittelstadt. Money might run out sooner rather than later for MacFarland.
It remains to be seen if Drouin enjoyed his experience in Colorado this season enough to accept another discounted offer. It's certain that a long playoff run, or even a Stanley Cup victory, would greatly help the Quebecer to stay in town for cheap!
Previously on HabsFanatics
POLL |
MARS 22 | 489 ANSWERS Jonathan Drouin's Time in Colorado May Be Done Imminently How much will Jonathan Drouin sign for this summer, in your opinion? |
Less than 1 million per year | 124 | 25.4 % |
1-2 million per year | 237 | 48.5 % |
2 to 3,5 million $ per year | 113 | 23.1 % |
More than 3,5 million a year | 15 | 3.1 % |
List of polls |