Avalanche Wrap: Brannstrom Deep Dive, Nabokov’s Big Plans

DENVER – There isn’t much going on around the NHL, and that isn’t likely to change for a few weeks, so let’s take a look back. Here are the most relevant stories to the Avalanche from the last week, and a look at what is coming at CHN.

Monday

If you’re wondering who the target of our next film room at CHN is going to be, it’s Mikhail Gulyayev. Since the Avalanche didn’t sign a ton of big players this summer, we’ll take a look at some of the top prospects in the system. Last week, a scout explained why they’re such big fans of Gulyayev.

He won’t be in Denver, but he’s back in Colorado and Dan Hinote is excited to help some young players develop, on and off the ice.

A team in the Central handed out a big contract last week, and it wasn’t the Avalanche. They’ll be seeing a lot of Brock Faber over the next few years.

Tuesday

Did you miss seeing Nail Yakupov in Avalanche gear? No? Well, we now know he didn’t throw his old jerseys away.

ESPN thinks highly of Nathan MacKinnon, but even I was surprised at how high they had him on their list of the top 25 NHL players this century.

Wednesday

He’s not coming to North America this year, but Ilya Nabokov wants to be the best goalie in the world someday.

They’ll still be up the road, but a little further to the East, as Martin Lind plans to move the Eagles to Greeley.

Thursday

Team Canada named their full coaching staff for the 4 Nations Face-Off next year, and Jared Bednar did not get the call. That surprised me a little bit.

I know I’m not alone in thinking the Avalanche need a third goaltender, but it won’t be Ivan Prosvetov.

Friday

Concerns about the lack of size on Colorado’s defense are valid, but I’m excited to see what Erik Brannstrom does with the Avalanche. Here’s a deep dive into his game for CHN+ members.

Film Room: Why Brännström Might Be The Next Avalanche Reclamation Project To Pay Off (+)

Expectations are lower for the Avalanche next year. Will they surpass those expectations?

Saturday

Don’t worry, we’ll get to a Calum Ritchie film room in the next month. For now, he’s getting high praise for his work in the World Junior Summer Showcase.

Sunday

I know we’re all probably sick of talking about it, but Valeri Nichushkin gives more of his side on everything that has happened.

The Week Ahead

• Mikhail Gulyayev film room (+)
• More Over/Under in regards to specific players
• Top Prospects in the system
• The Avalanche don’t have any ice rented out at Family Sports for a few weeks (looks like some maintenance), but if anything changes, I may swing by.

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