Avalanche have intriguing free-agent target in gritty forward

The Colorado Avalanche should not be done adding to their forward group. It is apparent that they could use more depth in their bottom six. Given that Brandon Duhaime, Zach Parise, Yakov Trenin, and Andrew Cogliano are no longer on the team, it would be understandable if they added another bottom-six forward.

Although it is currently the halfway point of July, some solid bottom-six forward options are still available on the free-agent market. One specific player who could be a strong pickup for the Avalanche is Nick Cousins.

Cousins, 30, just completed a solid two-year stint with the reigning Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers. While he was not the biggest difference-maker offensively, he was impactful because of his excellent agitating ability and physical style of play. These elements could make him a solid addition to the Avalanche’s roster.

If the Avalanche signed Cousins, he would provide them with another option for the fourth-line center role. It is no secret that the Avalanche could use more depth down the middle, and Cousins would give them that. However, he also offers great versatility, as he can play on the wing.

Ultimately, taking a shot on Cousins would be no real risk. He is a veteran forward who plays a scrappy game, can kill penalties, and has a Stanley Cup on his resume. On a cheap one-year deal, it could be an avenue for the Avalanche to explore.

In 69 games this past season with the Panthers, Cousins had seven goals, 15 points, 64 penalty minutes, and 130 hits.

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