The Colorado Avalanche have made a significant move to solidify their defensive corps for the foreseeable future, announcing a two-year contract extension for veteran blueliner Josh Manson. The deal, reportedly valued at $7.9 million, carries an average annual value (AAV) of $3.95 million and is set to keep the rugged defenseman in the Mile High City through the conclusion of the 2027-28 season.
This extension signifies the Avalanche organization`s confidence in the 33-year-old`s ability to continue contributing effectively, despite a recent season marked by injury. Manson was limited to just 48 games last year, recording 15 points (one goal, 14 assists) while averaging 18:02 of ice time, ranking fourth among team defensemen in both assists and time on ice.
However, Manson`s value to the Avalanche extends beyond regular-season statistics. He is a physical presence, a steady hand on defense, and a respected leader in the dressing room. Acquired prior to the 2022 trade deadline, he quickly became an integral part of the team`s Stanley Cup championship run that spring. During that memorable playoff journey, Manson posted career highs with three goals and eight points, including the critical overtime winner in Game 1 against St. Louis.
Even in the team`s more recent playoff appearance, Manson showed he can still rise to the occasion, tallying three points, including goals in the final two contests of their series.
Avalanche General Manager Chris MacFarland highlighted these attributes in a statement, praising Manson as a “steady and tough defender who chips in on the offensive side at key times” and an important “veteran leader.” Committing to Manson for another two seasons underscores the team`s desire to maintain experience and a Cup-winning pedigree on their backend.
Since joining the Avalanche in March 2022, Manson has accumulated 57 points (13 goals, 44 assists) over 173 games, providing the exact kind of reliable, hard-nosed defense the team sought when acquiring him. His career began with the Anaheim Ducks, where he was a sixth-round pick in 2011 and became a franchise leader among defensemen in hits before his trade to Colorado.
In the intricate dance of the salary cap, securing a player like Manson at this AAV provides stability on the blue line without consuming an exorbitant amount of cap space. It`s a move that addresses the present needs while offering continuity for the next couple of seasons, allowing the Avalanche to continue their pursuit of championship contention with a familiar, impactful presence patrolling the defense.
