The Colorado Avalanche are facing significant pressure as they attempt to return to championship contention. After the controversial signing of Brock Nelson, the management and coaching staff are on notice as playoff expectations mount. With only $1.2 million in cap space and 19 players signed, tough decisions loom, particularly concerning Samuel Girard and potentially other expendable players like Ross Colton and Miles Wood. The Avalanche must navigate these challenges while proving their critics wrong and avoiding catastrophic playoff failures, such as blowing a lead in Game 7.

Trade discussions are heating up around the league, with players like Charlie Coyle and Martin Necas also on the radar. Coyle's contract complicates future plans, making it essential for Colorado to execute shrewd trades to bolster their roster without overspending.