NHL legend Brent Burns has signed a one-year contract with the Colorado Avalanche, bringing his storied career full circle. The 40-year-old six-time NHL All-Star and 2017 Norris Trophy winner will join forces with the team that won the Stanley Cup in 2022.
Burns, who spent three seasons with the Carolina Hurricanes, brings valuable experience to the table, having played in all 82 games this past season while averaging 20:57 in ice time. He joins a roster with two-time and current Norris Trophy winner Cale Makar and Devon Toews, forming what may be top pairing in the NHL.
Burns’ arrival provides the Avs with defensive depth, as they look to bolster their bottom-six forward corps at a team-friendly price tag. With seven defensemen under contract, Burns could challenge for a second- or third-pairing role, alongside either Samuel Girard or Josh Manson. This move comes after Vladislav Gavrikov signed a seven-year deal with the New York Rangers and other notable signings by Cody Ceci and Ryan Lindgren.
Burns’ place in the free agent defenseman market was already strong, but this signing solidifies his status as one of the strongest players available. With 261 goals and 910 points in 1,497 games, he will look to bring another championship to Colorado after coming up short throughout his career.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/45651773/avalanche-sign-veteran-defenseman-brent-burns-1-year-deal