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.

Nicknamed 'Moose' during his early career, Mikko Rantanen is now a pivotal figure for the Dallas Stars, a profound shift for the Colorado Avalanche's former star. As the two teams gear up for a decisive Game 7, Rantanen's performance against his former teammates has ignited fierce emotions. While Avalanche fans still cheer for 'Mikko', Dallas fans embrace him as a key asset in their playoff ambitions. With a history of shared successes, the emotional weight of this matchup is immense, particularly for coach Jared Bednar, who reflects on Rantanen's contributions during his tenure. Bednar's admiration is evident; he recalls Rantanen's critical plays in high-pressure situations, like his recent performance that nearly sealed the Avalanche's fate.

As the series unfolds, the focus shifts to how Rantanen will perform in Game 7. His ability to impact the game at this level presents a unique challenge for the Avalanche defenders. Teammate Devon Toews acknowledges the need to contain Rantanen, recognizing him as one of the league's elite players. The stakes are high: the outcome of this game could redefine legacies for both teams. Win or lose, Rantanen's journey reflects the intricate dynamics of player loyalties and rivalries in the league.

Nathan MacKinnon etched his name in NHL history as he became the 100th player to reach 1,000 career points, achieving the milestone during a 3-0 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks. The Colorado Avalanche celebrated the moment, capping a perfect six-game homestand. MacKinnon assisted on both of his team's first two goals, contributing to a dominant performance led by goaltender Scott Wedgewood, who secured his second shutout of the season.

MacKinnon’s first point came on a play that was initially disallowed but was later confirmed, leading to a euphoric celebration from his teammates. The Avalanche now hold a crucial lead in the Central Division, aided by MacKinnon's league-leading 102 assists this season. The team continues to find its rhythm as they look to solidify their playoff positioning.

Erik Johnson expressed his heartfelt gratitude upon returning to the Colorado Avalanche, emphasizing the surreal experience of rejoining his favored team. He reflected on his emotional whirlwind during the trade process and acknowledged the Philadelphia Flyers for supporting his journey. Johnson emphasized that despite his age, he remains determined to contribute significantly, aiming for another Stanley Cup rather than a farewell tour.

Charlie Coyle shared his mixed feelings of leaving the Boston Bruins while expressing enthusiasm for the opportunities with Colorado. He acknowledged the challenges of joining a team that poses significant competition but relished the prospect of being part of a top-notch organization. His transition was aided by his former teammate Brandon Carlo, who also experienced a recent trade.