Aarif Deen
The Colorado Avalanche were busy on the second day of the draft, making a lot of selections and trading one minor piece away. Steve Yzerman talked about Dylan Larkin’s trade request for the first time since the news became public. Also, Sakic has his eyes on free agency. Who can he be looking at to fill the role vacated by Valeri Nichushkin?
All that and more on this edition of Deen’s Daily — June 28.
Colorado Hockey Now
Let’s start with the UFA targets board. This is the most exciting time of the offseason, and it’s pretty clear that Sakic wants to add. Here are four names that could make sense for Colorado.
The Avalanche were busy replenishing their cupboards on Saturday, making nine selections on the second day. They began with a skilled forward in Egor Shilov.
They also leaned towards skill with their next pick.
Here’s a full recap of all their picks.
Joe Sakic also made a minor trade, sending away Ivan Ivan to add *checks notes* another player who was drafted in the first round in 2021. That’s the third one this week.
Around The NHL
Detroit Hockey Now: Steve Yzerman finally met with media and fielded questions about Dylan Larkin. The Athletic also reported from Larkin’s agent, and, to put it lightly, this feels like a nasty divorce unfolding before our very eyes. While all that’s happening, things seem to be quiet on the Larkin trade front.
Boston Hockey Now: GM Don Sweeney spoke about trading Fabian Lysell after the fact.
Carolina Hockey Now: Without a contract in place, and with just three days to try to get one done before the field opens for the rest of the league, the Hurricanes traded for the rights to John Carlson from the Anaheim Ducks.
New Jersey Hockey Now: Devils fans are all-in on new GM Sunny Mehta.
San Jose Hockey Now: The San Jose Sharks used a draft pick on what would be the tallest NHL player ever, if he makes it to the big league.