Now that the Colorado Avalanche’s season is over, it is time to begin looking at some of their potential options for free agency. After losing in the second round to a deep Dallas Stars team, the Avalanche could look to make some adjustments this summer.
One area where the Avalanche should look to boost is their bottom six. They have multiple forwards with expired contracts and could let at least a few walk. Because of this, one player who they should keep an eye on this offseason is Vancouver Canucks winger Dakota Joshua.
Joshua, 28, is coming off a breakout year with the Canucks, posting new career highs with 18 goals, 14 assists, 32 points, and 245 hits in 63 games. He then followed that up with four goals and eight points in 13 playoff games.
Overall, Joshua provided the Canucks with a bit of everything and emerged as a key part of their lineup in the process. Because of this, the 6-foot-3 forward will be a hot commodity if he hits the market.
When looking at the Avalanche’s current group, there is no question that they could use an impactful forward like Joshua on their third line. This is because he not only provides toughness and physicality but also provides solid secondary scoring. The Avalanche need more production from the bottom half of their forward group, and Joshua would give them that.
Given how well Joshua played for the Canucks this season, it is likely that they will try to re-sign him. However, if a new deal between them is not finalized before July 1, the Avalanche should consider pushing for him this summer.
