Joe Sakic makes several trades in return to Avalanche GM role
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 26, 2026, 9:15 PM
Last updated Jun 26, 2026
Joe Sakic is active in reshaping the Colorado Avalanche roster after being reinstated as General Manager. Following a playoff sweep by the Vegas Golden Knights, Sakic has traded Valeri Nichushkin to the Columbus Blue Jackets and Ross Colton to the Nashville Predators, among other deals. He has re-signed defensemen Brent Burns and Brett Kulak, aiming to strengthen the team's competitive edge. Sakic's changes reflect a desire to capitalize on the talent of key players like Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar, looking to address future championship opportunities. More moves are anticipated as Sakic continues evaluating the roster.
- •Sakic reinstated as Avalanche GM and president of hockey operations.
- •Traded Valeri Nichushkin for draft picks to free up salary cap space.
- •Signed Brent Burns for 23rd NHL season and Brett Kulak for five years.
- •Focus on maintaining depth with stars like MacKinnon and Makar.
- •Avalanche seeking further roster improvements heading into next season.
- 9:15 PMYahoo Sports — Joe Sakic already making big deals, bringing back veterans in his return to role as Avalanche GM
"Joe Sakic wasn't content to simply run it back. Far from it, even if the Colorado Avalanche did have the best record in the regular season. “Super Joe," his nickname as a Hall of Fame player, has certainly lived up to his reputation of “Trader Joe” since stepping back into his role of GM for the Avalanche.
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