There’s been talk of Ryan Smyth coming to Colorado since before this year’s trading deadline. Finally, it’s happened. Smyth has agreed to a 5 year, $31.25 million contract. Like the Hannan deal, it’s probably a bit below market value, is relatively cap-friendly (Smyth will be 36 when it expires), and brings in a player that Avalanche fans really want to see in a Colorado uniform.
Smyth plays a game that fits really well in the Avs offensive system. He’s going to look really good standing in front of the net on the powerplay. This is a perfect signing for the Avalanche. And now I can finally get some sleep.
Smyth is a dream come true for the powerplay. He’s absolute gold in front of the net, second to only Holstrom and some might argue second to none.
Two character guys. Nasty, competitive and guys you take pride in wearing the Avalanche uniform.
I know the Avs have another seven million or so. I’d save that money for paying the piper with young kids or working a deadline deal for a top flight goaltender if our current duo doesn’t step up.
Hot damn what a good day. In the end, I’m glad Drury went to the Rangers and Smyth came to Colorado because an in-the-slot left winger fills a much larger need for the Avs than an in-the-slot center.
Combined with Hannan, the Avs have increased their grittiness by at least one truckfull of sand.
Ok - I’m happy with these two signings! What I’m not happy about is the lack of updates on our salary cap figures!
j/k DD. What are the chances, now, that Foppa will be back? Do we really need him? I find myself wanting him back, but logically thinking that he really has no place on this team, sad as that may sound.
I think Forsberg will pull the midseason or playoff Willis Reed routine again. If FG saves his cap room he can make a decision at the trade deadline on how he wants to use the dollars, either to bring in Foppa or deal for a goaltender etc… Lots and lots of options. With the roster as it is and all the young guns in the prospect system, the forward position for the Avs just got very crowded.
Can anyone imagine a scenario where the Avs are healthy and actually play Scott Parker? If Hensick, Stewart or Jones make a showing at camp do you really keep playing Guite? I’m a believer in having a checking grit line but the Avs just have a ton of options now. Wolski, Richardson and Guite better bring their AAA game if they want to play. I’m guessing Arnason doesn’t have a two-way contract but he is even a possibility to get bumped if some of the young kids turn it up. If they are all properly showcased, FG has a lot of tradeline bait for teams that won’t make the playoffs at the trade deadline.
yep - those guys (plus Svatos, if he signs) will need to bring their lunch pail this year for sure.
If and when Svatos is confirmed, the Avs will still have a spot open at right wing. I wonder if they’re keeping that open for somebody like TJ Hensick or another up-and-coming rookie whippersnapper.
Or maybe they really are going for some crusty grinder like Dallas Drake. Hmm, so intriguing.