Why Malinski could make another Avalanche Blueliner redundant

The Colorado Avalanche may have to choose between two very similar defenseman, potentially parting with one to fill other needs.

Oct 7, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Colorado Avalanche defenseman Sam Malinski (70) warms up prior to the game against the Los Angeles Kings at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images | Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn ImagesThe Colorado Avalanche found an overlooked gem in Sam Malinski. Malinski went undrafted out of the NCAA, signing with the club in 2023.

Initially, his lack of size and physicality made him somewhat of a long shot for a full-time NHL role. Yet, the Avalanche saw something in Malinski. They gave him a shot, allowing him to…