Statement Game. Statement Trade.
March 6, 2025, will go down as one of the defining moments of the 2024-25 NHL season for the Colorado Avalanche. On a night where the Avs dismantled the San Jose Sharks at Ball Arena, their front office was simultaneously orchestrating a blockbuster trade—a move that cements their intent to go all-iin for the Stanley Cup.
A Dominant Performance on the Ice
The Sharks, led by former Avalanche goaltender Alexandar Georgiev, were completely overwhelmed in a game that showcased Colorado’s offensive firepower. Josh Manson returned to the lineup after a seven-game absence due to a lower-body injury, further reinforcing the Avs’ defense.
On the offensive side, Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar put on a masterclass, making history in the process:
• MacKinnon tied his career-high with five points (2 goals, 3 assists)
• Makar set a new Avalanche franchise record for most points by a defenseman in a single game with six points (2 goals, 4 assists)
• Combined, they totaled an astonishing 11 points—a feat rarely seen in NHL history
• Makar became the first defenseman since Paul Coffey (March 14, 1986) to record 2 goals and 4 assists in a game
Meanwhile, MacKinnon is now just three points away from joining Peter Stastny and the legendary Joe Sakic as the only players in Avalanche/Nordiques franchise history to reach 1,000 career points. What’s even scarier? MacKinnon isn’t even 30 yet, and Makar hasn’t even hit his prime.
The Trade That Sent Shockwaves Through the League
As Colorado was putting on a clinic on ESPN, their front office was busy making power moves.
During the third period, commentators broke the news that the Avalanche had finalized a blockbuster trade:
Colorado Acquires:
• Brock Nelson (C) – 20 goals, 23 assists (Islanders retain 50% of his salary)
• William Dufour (F)
New York Islanders Receive:
• Calum Ritchie (F)
• 2026 or 2027 First-Round Pick (Conditional)
• 2028 Third-Round Pick (Conditional)
• Oliver Kylington (D) (Acquired from Anaheim Ducks earlier in the season)
For the Islanders, this is a solid return for an expiring contract, allowing them to rebuild for the future. But for Colorado, this is a massive move, adding a top-tier two-way forward to an already stacked roster.
Nelson’s Fit in Colorado’s Loaded Lineup
With this trade, Colorado strengthens an already elite offensive unit, as Nelson immediately slots in as the team’s fourth-leading scorer behind:
1. Nathan MacKinnon – 93 points
2. Cale Makar – 68 points
3. Martin Nečas – 68 points
4. Brock Nelson – 43 points (20 goals, 23 assists)
Nelson has played under several of the same coaches as MacKinnon, making the chemistry between the two a seamless fit. His versatility, veteran experience, and offensive upside make him the perfect addition for a deep playoff run.
Chris MacFarland’s Ultimate Power Play
Colorado GM Chris MacFarland has made his intentions crystal clear—the Avalanche are going all-in for the Stanley Cup this year. By targeting some of the league’s most sought-after trade pieces, the Avs have transformed what once looked like a mediocre season into a serious championship push.
With momentum building and one of the most complete rosters in the NHL, Colorado is now in prime position to bring home Lord Stanley’s Cup for the fourth time.
Dante Robinson | Senior NHL Analyst for TheNSR Network
