Nathan MacKinnon is one of the best centers in the world, but the entire depth chart behind him could be different this season.
For a Colorado Avalanche team with the highest expectations possible, finding the right players to fill those spots could be the difference between another disappointing postseason exit and one that ends with a parade. The Avalanche traded for two players this offseason, Ryan Johansen and Ross Colton, with clear designs to slot them behind MacKinnon as the second- and third-line centers.
They are coming from different situations, with different but equally enticing resumes. If they both succeed, it will be a master stroke of roster building by general manager Chris MacFarland.