Avalanche Claim Depth Defenseman From Reigning Stanley Cup Champions

The Colorado Avalanche have poached a defenseman from the reigning Stanley Cup champions, claiming Mike Reilly off waivers from the Carolina Hurricanes.

Colorado could use the help. Injuries have started to catch up with the team, particularly on the blue line, and Reilly gives them another left-handed option without having to give up an asset to get him.

The 33-year-old has played 468 NHL games and spent time with seven different organizations. He's a solid defenseman who skates well, moves the puck efficiently and has consistently posted respectable underlying numbers throughout his career. He hasn't always been a coach's favorite, and there have been stops where he's struggled to earn much…