The Colorado Avalanche have brought in Dave Hakstol as an assistant coach, infusing fresh energy into Jared Bednar's coaching team. Hakstol, formerly at the helm of the Philadelphia Flyers and Seattle Kraken, recently led the Kraken to a surprising playoff victory over the Avalanche. With his rich coaching background, including a notable tenure at the University of North Dakota, he is expected to elevate Colorado's performance, particularly on the power play.

Hakstol's experience, including a Jack Adams Award nomination, highlights his ability to optimize talent. As he takes over from Ray Bennett, who was let go after the Avalanche's playoff exit, the Avalanche look to leverage their robust roster, including the recent acquisition of Brent Burns. The coaching staff anticipates a dynamic approach to power-play strategies, especially considering the caliber of players like Cale Makar and Devon Toews on the roster.

Brent Burns has embarked on a new chapter in his illustrious NHL career, signing a one-year, $1 million contract with the Colorado Avalanche. With a remarkable Ironman streak of 925 consecutive games and aspirations for a Stanley Cup, Burns is keen to mirror the late-career success of Ray Bourque, who achieved a similar goal with the Avalanche. At 40, joining a star-studded roster led by Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar, Burns is set to provide veteran leadership. He aims to capitalize on his experience as he prepares for his 22nd NHL season, hoping to finally secure that elusive Cup.

Burns’ journey includes impressive statistics: 261 goals and 649 assists across 1,497 games, and past accolades such as the Norris Trophy for best defenseman. This season could be critical, not just for personal records but for the Avalanche’s championship aspirations. As he integrates into a lineup that includes captain Gabriel Landeskog, Burns is ready to embrace his role and contribute to the team's collective goal of winning the Stanley Cup.

Brent Burns has had a remarkable career, featuring numerous accolades and experiences, including the Norris Trophy and participation in international tournaments. Now, as he nears 40, he's signed with the Colorado Avalanche with a clear goal: to win the Stanley Cup. The one-year contract, valued at $1 million with potential bonuses, reflects his intention to continue contributing both on and off the ice.

As a seasoned veteran, Burns adds much-needed size and skill to the Avalanche defense, recognized for his offensive prowess and penalty-killing ability. His long reach and commitment to fitness allow him to log significant minutes, even in his late 30s. The Avalanche management anticipates that Burns will bring both character and experience to the team, crucial as they aim for another championship run.

Nikolaj Ehlers has signed a six-year, $51 million contract with the Carolina Hurricanes, marking a significant move in the NHL free agency landscape. The speedy winger, who previously played for Winnipeg, was the top free agent in the market and will carry an $8.5 million cap hit until 2031. Ehlers joins a team that has made the playoffs for seven consecutive seasons, boasting a strong offensive core that could greatly benefit from his skills.

In other news, veteran Dmitry Orlov has signed with the San Jose Sharks for two years at $13 million, bolstering their defense. Orlov, who won a Stanley Cup with Washington, brings experience to a Sharks team that is reshaping after recent struggles. Meanwhile, Brent Burns has taken his talents to Colorado with a one-year contract, continuing his storied career as he approaches 22 seasons in the league.

Nikolaj Ehlers, the 29-year-old winger, continues to be a significant free agent 30 hours into NHL free agency as he evaluates his options. Teams like Carolina, Tampa Bay, and Washington are reportedly interested in him, indicating his high value in the current market. The recent signings of Brock Boeser and Mikael Granlund may set the salary benchmark for Ehlers, who could command the most lucrative contract of the offseason among players switching teams.

Veteran defenseman Brent Burns has signed with Colorado, while the Oilers have added Andrew Mangiapane and Curtis Lazar to their roster. The New York Islanders secured KHL forward Maxim Shabanov, and various teams are still eyeing other forwards and defensemen like Dmitry Orlov and Matt Grzelcyk. With Ehlers remaining unsigned, the market dynamics are shifting, affecting potential moves for other forwards like Anthony Beauvillier and Jeff Skinner.