The Colorado Avalanche face important decisions regarding their defensive depth chart as they prepare for the offseason. With the top four defencemen secured under contract, the main focus shifts to filling positions 5 through 8 on the blue line. Recent years have seen a carousel of players in the No. 5 slot, including Ryan Lindgren, Bo Byram, and Sean Walker. Lindgren’s uncertain future as an unrestricted free agent raises concerns about the budget, especially with the potential acquisition of a No. 2 center. The Avalanche might lean towards Sam Malinski as the new No. 5, but they will need to identify a partner for him.

The options include familiar names and new figures. Erik Johnson, if he opts to continue playing, could serve in a more limited capacity, while Keaton Middleton’s role remains uncertain after inconsistent performances last season. They might also explore external options, which could involve looking for bargains or mid-range signings. Players like Brian Dumoulin and Derek Forbort stand out as potential mid-range acquisitions, albeit with some risk given their recent performances. The Avalanche will have to navigate a delicate balance of maintaining competitiveness while adhering to financial constraints as they finalize their lineup for the coming season.

The Colorado Avalanche are gearing up for an offseason marked by significant roster changes, particularly focusing on their six pending unrestricted free agents (UFAs). With $8.7 million in projected salary cap space and 18 players already under contract, the team faces tough decisions. Brock Nelson, acquired for top prospect Calum Ritchie, is a key target but may prefer to join his hometown team in Minnesota. Jonathan Drouin's injury-plagued season may not earn him a high-value deal, while Ryan Lindgren’s current salary could be beyond the Avs’ budget. Other potential losses include veteran Erik Johnson, whose future remains uncertain, alongside depth players like Joel Kiviranta and Jimmy Vesey.

Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers are also navigating a challenging offseason with GM Stan Bowman needing to address several questions. Viktor Arvidsson's performance alongside Leon Draisaitl has raised eyebrows, while the team considers the future of older players like Corey Perry. Keeping Connor Brown and Trent Frederic could be pivotal decisions, along with evaluating young talents Matt Savoie and Noah Philp for roster spots.

Cale Makar has made history by becoming the first NHL defenseman in 16 years to score 30 goals in a season, joining an elite group of only nine players at his position to achieve this milestone. His achievement has drawn admiration from teammates and analysts alike, indicating that he is not only experiencing a remarkable season but also showcasing a level of talent that could redefine the role of defensemen in the league.

With 92 points, Makar has set a new franchise record for points by a defenseman and has established himself as a frontrunner for the Norris Trophy once again. His ability to perform at this level is seen as a potential harbinger for future success, with teammates emphasizing that this may not even be his peak. Makar's elite skating, skill, and game awareness have drawn comparisons to top quarterbacks in the NFL, showcasing his extraordinary ability to read the game.

The Colorado Avalanche's Ryan Lindgren, recently acquired from the New York Rangers, is focused solely on his performance on the ice, deflecting contract discussions until the offseason. Having previously signed a one-year, $4.5 million contract, Lindgren anticipates a long-term deal but prioritizes team success and personal improvement as the Avalanche aim for the playoffs.

Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers attempted to secure forward Jean-Gabriel Pageau from the New York Islanders at the trade deadline, but negotiations failed. The Islanders' management indicated a preference for younger players over draft picks, emphasizing their current roster's potential for improvement.

Ryan Lindgren's recent stint with the Colorado Avalanche began with excitement as he reunited with Casey Mittelstadt. However, that joy was short-lived as Mittelstadt was traded to the Boston Bruins just a week later for Charlie Coyle. Lindgren has since adjusted to a new role with the Avalanche while maintaining comparable ice time as he had in New York.

Despite playing behind a solid defensive pairing, Lindgren's performance has been commendable. He has seamlessly adapted to the Avalanche's style, boosting his expected goals while contributing significantly on the ice. With injuries impacting other defensemen, Lindgren's presence has become crucial for the Avs as they gear up for the playoffs.