Avalanche in the mix for Canadiens defender

The Colorado Avalanche are preparing for what should be a busy offseason. One specific need they could end up having is a right-shot defenseman. At the time of this writing, pending UFA Sean Walker has still not been re-signed, and July 1 is rapidly approaching.

It appears that the Avalanche are starting to explore other options, as they are one of the clubs expressing interest in Montreal Canadiens defenseman David Savard, according to The Fourth Period .

Savard was a big name in the rumor mill leading up to the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline, but a move centering around him did not come to fruition. However, while this is the case, there’s an expectation that the Canadiens will continue to listen to offers for him again this offseason.

If the Avalanche acquired Savard, he would work on either their second or third pairing. In addition, he would give the Avalanche another spectacular option for their penalty kill, as he plays a reliable game defensively. He also isn’t afraid to throw the body, which only adds to his appeal.

Savard is entering the final season of his contract and carries a reasonable $3.5 million cap hit. He also has zero trade protection, so he’s a player the Avalanche could acquire without any possible restrictions.

The Avalanche could use another big and steady defenseman on their roster, so it is understandable that they have Savard on their radar. It will be intriguing to see if their interest in him leads them to acquire him from here.

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