3 Avalanche players ranked as top free agents

It may be hard to believe, but NHL free agency is only slightly over a month away. On July 1, teams around the league will have the opportunity to sign new players.

With free agency rapidly approaching, NHL insider Chris Johnston released his list of the Top 50 UFAs for the 2024 NHL Offseason. Three Avalanche players made the cut -Sean Walker, Jonathan Drouin, and Yakov Trenin.

Walker secured the No. 23 spot on Johnston's rankings. Given how strong of a season he had, it is entirely understandable. The right-shot defenseman set new career highs with 10 goals, 29 points, and a plus-11 rating in 81 games split between the Philadelphia Flyers and Avalanche.

Teams in need of help on their right side will surely pursue Walker. This season, especially with Philly, he showed that he can be a legitimate top-four defenseman. As a result, a big payday should be on the way for the Keswick native.

Drouin was not too far behind Walker in Johnston's rankings, as he picked up the No. 29 spot. The 2013 third-overall pick had an outstanding bounce-back season with the Avalanche and has dramatically improved his value. He benefitted from reuniting with junior teammate Nathan MacKinnon, as he recorded 19 goals and a career-high 56 points in 79 games.

Drouin, 29, has expressed interest in re-signing with the Avalanche, but the club could face difficulty giving him the raise he deserves. Thus, if he hits the market, he should have an array of suitors.

Trenin had the No. 46 ranking on Johnston's latest UFA board. The 27-year-old appeared in 76 games this season, posting 12 goals, 17 points, 207 hits, and a plus-15 rating. Overall, it was a solid year for the 27-year-old, and he should be a hot commodity if the Avalanche can't get him re-signed.

Trenin is precisely the kind of player that all teams need. While he is not the most dominant player offensively, his immense physicality, toughness, and strong defensive play make him valuable. In addition, he can play both down the middle and on the wing, which only adds to his appeal.

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