Deen’s Daily: Franchise Valuations; Highest-Paid Hughes; Panthers Lock Up Another Core Piece

Sportico revealed its annual franchise valuations. Where do the Colorado Avalanche rank? Also, the highest-paid Hughes spoke to the media, and the Florida Panthers are keeping a key defenseman around for the long haul.

All that and more on this edition of Deen’s Daily — October 3.

Colorado Hockey Now

The Avs were off on Thursday. It sounds like Friday will be another off day before the preseason finale wraps up Saturday in Dallas. It looks like the team is in L.A. running KSE duties by visiting the Los Angeles Rams. I’m not sure Broncos fans loved seeing all their favorite Avs players decked out in customized Rams jerseys.

Anyway, Sportico released its annual franchise valuations and the Avalanche are in the lower half of the league despite rising by a big percentage year over year.

READ MORE: Avalanche Rank 20th In Franchise Value According to Sportico

Also, Tyson Jost is making his way back to the Central Division. The Avs will see a lot of him this year.

READ MORE: Tyson Jost is Back in the Central Division

Around The NHL

Florida Hockey Now: The Panthers keep doing their thing and locking up players to solid contracts. This time it was Niko Mikkola.

New Jersey Hockey Now: The only remaining Hughes brother to not answer questions about the trio teaming up finally did. Luke Hughes, now the highest paid of the three, med with media following his contract signing.

Detroit Hockey Now: I still think this is going to be a big year for the Red Wings. But it’s October, and head coach Todd McLellan is still looking for the right mix of lines for opening night.

Pittsburgh Hockey Now: The Pens roster is taking shape after they placed a handful of veterans on waivers.

Montreal Hockey Now: Predicting the Habs’ opening night roster.