The Colorado Avalanche have made a significant move to strengthen their defense ahead of the NHL trade deadline, acquiring defenseman Ryan Lindgren, depth forward Jimmy Vesey, and prospect Hank Kempf from the New York Rangers. In exchange, the Rangers receive Calvin de Haan, Juuso Parssinen, a second-round pick, and a fourth-round pick in the 2025 NHL draft. This trade addresses a crucial need for the Avalanche, who have been seeking to solidify their blue line as they gear up for a potential Stanley Cup run.
This strategic acquisition not only brings in a seasoned defenseman in Lindgren but also adds depth to the forward ranks with Vesey. The move is expected to provide a significant boost to the Avalanche’s defensive stability and overall team performance. With the trade deadline looming, this deal underscores Colorado’s commitment to competing at the highest level and making a deep playoff push.
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Ryan Lindgren: A Defensive Cornerstone
Ryan Lindgren, 27, brings a wealth of experience and defensive prowess to the Avalanche. A left-handed defenseman, Lindgren has been a consistent presence on the Rangers’ blue line for the past six seasons. Known for his defense-first mentality, Lindgren’s physicality and shot-blocking ability make him a valuable asset in his own zone. Standing at 6-feet and 194 pounds, he has consistently averaged between 18:50 and 20:06 of ice time per game over the last five seasons, showcasing his reliability and importance to the team.
Lindgren’s addition addresses a pressing need for the Avalanche, who have been searching for a stable partner to play alongside Sam Malinski on the third pairing. The absence of Josh Manson due to injury has further highlighted the team’s need for defensive reinforcements. Lindgren’s experience playing alongside star defenseman Adam Fox in New York’s top pairing demonstrates his ability to contribute effectively in high-pressure situations. According to Natural Stat Trick, Lindgren has played 611 minutes with Fox at 5-on-5 this season, underscoring his significant role on the Rangers’ defense.
“Lindgren’s defensive capabilities and experience will be invaluable to our team,” said Avalanche General Manager Joe Sakic. “He is a player who consistently demonstrates a strong commitment to defense and will provide stability to our blue line.”
Jimmy Vesey: Adding Depth and Versatility
In addition to Lindgren, the Avalanche also acquire depth forward Jimmy Vesey, 31, who brings a versatile skill set to the team’s bottom-six. Vesey has recorded four goals and six points in 33 games for the Rangers this season. Over the previous two seasons, he tallied 24 goals and 51 points while playing in all but three games, demonstrating his offensive capabilities and consistent performance.
Vesey’s ability to contribute both offensively and defensively makes him a valuable addition to the Avalanche. He is expected to see time on the team’s penalty kill unit, further enhancing his utility. Currently in the final season of a two-year contract with an $800,000 cap hit, Vesey is set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer.
Trade Details and Salary Cap Implications
The trade sees the Avalanche sending Calvin de Haan, Juuso Parssinen, a second-round pick, and a fourth-round pick in the 2025 NHL draft to the Rangers in exchange for Lindgren, Vesey, and prospect Hank Kempf. The Rangers are retaining half of Lindgren’s $4.5 million cap hit, providing the Avalanche with additional financial flexibility.
According to PuckPedia, swapping out de Haan and Parssinen for Lindgren and Vesey leaves the Avs with $3.35 million in cap space, assuming the team continues to carry 23 players and Josh Manson does not end up on long-term injured reserve. The Avalanche could create additional cap space by placing a defenseman on waivers with the intent of sending him to the Colorado Eagles.
Roster Adjustments and Third Pairing Options
The Avalanche’s acquisition of Lindgren addresses the team’s need for a reliable third-pairing defenseman. Last season, Sean Walker and Jack Johnson filled those roles, but both players departed as free agents in the offseason. While Sam Malinski secured one of the spots in training camp, the team has been searching for a consistent partner to solidify the blue line.
The Avs have added several options, including de Haan, Kylington, Erik Brannstrom, Jacob MacDonald, Calle Rosen, and John Ludvig. However, Keaton Middleton has emerged as the preferred option for the No. 6 role in recent months. Kylington has shown flashes of potential, but Avs coach Jared Bednar has emphasized the need for him to reduce mistakes that lead to scoring chances for the opposition.
Departures: Parssinen and Kempf
Juuso Parssinen, who was acquired by the Avalanche in a trade in late November, spent time on the second line when Valeri Nichushkin was injured but has been a healthy scratch in the past two games since Nichushkin’s return. In 22 games with Colorado, Parssinen recorded two goals and six points.
Hank Kempf, a seventh-round pick by the Rangers in 2021, is a 6-foot-2 defenseman who has two goals and seven points as a senior at Cornell this season. He can become a free agent in September if the Avalanche do not sign him to an entry-level contract before then.
Future Draft Considerations
The Colorado Avalanche owns two picks in the second and fourth rounds of the 2025 NHL draft. As part of the trade, the Rangers will receive the higher selection in both rounds once the order is determined.
Final Thoughts: Avalanche Positioned for a Playoff Push
The Colorado Avalanche’s acquisition of Ryan Lindgren and Jimmy Vesey represents a strategic move to bolster their defense and add depth to their forward ranks. With the trade deadline approaching, this deal underscores the team’s commitment to competing at the highest level and making a deep playoff run. Lindgren’s defensive prowess and Vesey’s versatility are expected to provide a significant boost to the Avalanche’s overall performance.
By addressing key needs on their roster, the Avalanche have positioned themselves as a formidable contender in the Western Conference. As the team prepares for the remainder of the regular season and the playoffs, these additions could prove to be crucial in their quest for the Stanley Cup. The Avalanche faithful have reason to be optimistic as their team makes a bold statement with these impactful acquisitions.
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