Since the commencement of the 2025-26 season, the Colorado Avalanche had been effectively securing significant role players with straightforward contract renewals. Initially, this included Scott Wedgewood and Gavin Brindley, followed by Sam Malinski once the calendar turned to 2026. However, reports suggest that utility forward Jack Drury was excluded from these numerous signings because he declined all proposals from the Avalanche. So, what is the next step for this developing situation?
As an impending Restricted Free Agent with the option for arbitration, there isn’t an immediate imperative to finalize his agreement before July 1st, which marks the start of the new league year and free agency. Nonetheless, with comparable contracts and cap-inflated salaries consistently climbing, there’s always a fiscal incentive to conclude negotiations once a decision to retain a player has been established. Now facing the prospect of Drury potentially filing for arbitration within weeks, a resolution is urgently required, especially since the Avalanche are again grappling with salary cap limitations, possessing less than $3 million in available space for the 2026-27 season.
Drury had previously signed a two-year deal worth $1.725 million annually with the Carolina Hurricanes in July 2024, which meant he had one season remaining as a Restricted Free Agent before becoming an Unrestricted Free Agent. During his time in Colorado this season, the 26-year-old achieved a personal best of 10 goals and equaled his top score of 27 points. He also saw an increase in his average ice time to over 14 minutes nightly and excelled with an impressive 58.10% success rate on face-offs. It’s evident that Drury is a useful asset, and the Avalanche likely wish to retain him; however, at what price point?
Current estimates place Drury’s potential earnings at slightly under $3 million annually for a three-year agreement. While this may seem fair, the Avalanche’s acquisition of Nic Roy, another middle-six forward, in March—who is still under contract for another year at $3 million—makes it difficult for the team to justify another similar salary for a bottom-six player. Further complicating matters, Michael McCarron of Minnesota recently set a higher benchmark by securing a six-year, $3.3 million-per-year deal after accumulating 17 points last season. The escalating market for comparable players makes it increasingly challenging to control costs, particularly with the threat of arbitration.
Following the conclusion of the Stanley Cup Finals, the hockey league is reactivating with various transactions expected before the NHL entry draft on June 26th. Will Joe Sakic, back as General Manager, initiate his first decision regarding Drury, either by signing him or orchestrating a trade? Considering the Avalanche only have four defensemen under contract for the next season and genuinely require a defensive overhaul, could Drury be instrumental in acquiring one of those crucial blue-liners? This might occur either through a trade package involving him or by freeing up salary cap room. Alternatively, does Drury’s value warrant his asking price, necessitating roster adjustments in other areas?
How would you address the situation with Drury? Share your thoughts in the comments section.
