Mark Rycroft was re-signed today by the Avalanche. Chalk me up as someone who didn’t expect to see Rycroft back. Is Ossi Vaananen next? (naaaaah).
Along with Rycroft, the Avalanche also added a couple of 6′3″ defensemen to play in Lake Erie: former 1st rounder Jeff Jillson and enforcer Dale Purinton. They join a trio of other recent signings: winger Eric Healey (a former AHL teammate of Ben Guite), center Matt Hussey and goalie Tyler Wieman. Jillson is particularly intriguing - he’s got size and offensive ability but, apparently, no hockey smarts. It’s probably a pipe dream, but it would be great to see him turn it around and warrant a look with the Avs.
Hopefully, this is just a depth signing to fill out the shiny new AHL franchise.
What are the chances that Rycroft makes the team out of training camp instead of Stewart or Hensick?
Well, since he’s already spent time up in the NHL, odds are Rycroft will make the team again before Hensick or Stewart crack the lineup. But you have to assume that Rycroft will be a healthy scratch if Coach Q decides to give the two youngin’s some time in the lineup during the course of the season. Also don’t forget Hlinka. That guy could easily make the team in place of someone like Rycroft.