The Winter Olympics are getting closer to a conclusion and the Colorado Avalanche have had an impact on the teams that have reached the semifinals. While a handful of players continue to focus on a gold medal, Avalanche management are focusing on the stretch run prior to the NHL playoffs.
The Avalanche continue to be linked to various names, usually related to depth at forward. That being said, there is another pressing issue that management needs to work to address prior to the playoffs: defensive depth.
Defensive Depth is Precarious
The Avalanche have largely been fortunate when it comes to their injury situation. They’ve had a couple of rough stretches, but the defense has been largely healthy. It is part of the reason have what is considered one of the best defensive corps in the league.
In the regular season, Ilya Solovyov, Jack Ahcan, and Keaton Middleton are fine options for a few games, especially given the Avalanche’s place in the standings. Things change when the playoffs begin, however.
One injury may be manageable, but is it a good idea to shorten the bench and put that much more strain on your horses (like Cale Makar) when the situation could have otherwise been avoided? The margin for error is already thin in the playoffs, why make the situation that much tougher?
An Ill-Timed Injury Could Play Havoc
Injuries have already been a substantial factor in the Avalanche’s season. The Avalanche are fortunate that Gabriel Landeskog was cleared to play for Sweden, and his impact on the lineup was felt when he wasn’t able to play.
Related: 3 Names Avalanche Should Target After Olympic Freeze
Compared to last season, the Avalanche have been fortunate when it comes to injury. They even look like they will get back excellent bottom six center Logan O’Connor back after the Olympic break. That said, depth is thin enough on defense that it could prove troublesome in the playoffs.
An injury to Devon Toews showed that prior to the break. Granted, he is one of the best defensemen on the team but the impact was substantial. An injury to Josh Manson, Brent Burns, or Sam Girard could wind up being just as bad. Can the Avalanche trust Solovyov, Middleton, or Ahcan in a tough playoff matchup?
Affordable Options Available
The Avalanche could add a depth option without having to upset the apple cart. A middle-round pick could likely be enough to land Logan Stanley from the Winnipeg Jets. Luke Schenn could also be available. It might be a bit much to go after Connor Murphy from the Chicago Blackhawks but that could be another potential option.
The Avalanche don’t need to be in play for a superstar this season. They have the depth throughout the lineup to make a run at the franchise’s fourth championship. With a few minor moves, they could insulate themselves from injuries and put all of their focus on the prize.
