Just one month ago, the Avalanche were in the thick of the playoff race. Funny what a record-setting losing streak can do. The Avs have already started to retool, and the Chris Stewart/Kevin Shattenkirk-for-Erik Johnson move could be seen as a somewhat lateral deal as Colorado rebuilds its blueline.
Colorado Avalanche At The 2011 NHL Trade Deadline: Rumors, Needs And Expectations
There's plenty of young talent on this team, and the devastating toll injuries took has made this a lost season. It's also given Colorado a chance to examine who performs under adversity and who can step up when needed as the once-proud Avs try to find their way back. The Avs have stated that they won't trade Milan Hejduk; there's plenty else up for grabs -- the rumor mill has even claimed Paul Stastny might go.
Status: Sellers
Need: In the long haul, Colorado needs to find some stability in net along with stay-at-home defensemen to steady their group.
Players In Trade Rumors: John-Michael Liles ($4.2 million), Peter Budaj ($1.25 million), Paul Stastny ($6.6 million)
More Reading From Mile High Hockey
This story was written by Mike Chen.
See More:
