Evan’s NHL Daily: Future GM Andrew Cogliano, Backup Goalie Traded

If the Colorado Avalanche really do need to trade for an NHL calibre goaltender, one of their options was taken off the market on Tuesday.

A league wide players poll from ESPN definitely delivered, as players from around the NHL gave honest answers to the questions they were asked. As it turns out, the Avalanche might have a future GM on their current roster.

All that and more in this Wednesday edition of Evan’s Daily.

Colorado Hockey Now

Some important dates to put on your calendar as we enter another NHL season for the Colorado Avalanche.

Media day is on Wednesday, and we’ll be live with a report, as a few players will speak. In addition, look for a new piece that focuses on one question for each Avalanche player heading into the new season.

Player Poll

Who are you most excited to watch this upcoming season? What rule changes would you like to see implemented in the league? What current player would make a good GM one day? These are the types of questions that were asked to several players during the NHL Media Tour last week, and some of the responses were incredible. Turns out, there are multiple people around the league who think Andrew Cogliano can be a GM after he retires.

Trade Goes Down

The Montreal Canadiens were sitting on multiple goaltenders, and if they didn’t move at least one, they probably would have lost them for nothing on waivers. That’s a situation the Avalanche were certainly monitoring, given the questions around the health of Pavel Francouz. They might have to look elsewhere now.

Casey DeSmith is headed to Vancouver, as the Canucks acquired him in exchange for Tanner Pearson and a third round pick. If he’s someone the Avalanche were targeting, he is no longer an option.

National Hockey Now

Five reasons the Pittsburgh Penguins could fizzle in 2023-24.

Anders Lee thinks the Islanders will surprise. I’m not convinced…

The Los Angeles Kings teased a new top nine down in Australia.

Some bold predictions for the New Jersey Devils.