After missing the first round of the playoffs, Jonathan Drouin returned in the second round to aid the Avalanche in their fight against the Stars. Despite his efforts, the Stars eliminated Colorado in six games, ending Drouin’s first season with the Avalanche.
Drouin’s inaugural season in Colorado was mentally rejuvenating, and his 56-point tally likely brought him some satisfaction. However, he now faces the issue of being out of contract for the next season.
In a post-game interview, Drouin expressed his desire to remain with the Avalanche, confirming his intention to sign a new contract with the team. He stated, “I’d love to come back here and sign a contract. I’ve loved my time here and so has my family.”
This isn’t the first time Drouin has indicated his wish to stay in Colorado. Earlier in April, before the season concluded, he mentioned on The Drop podcast that he wanted to return, although his focus then was solely on the playoffs and not on contract extensions.
With the Avalanche now out of the playoffs, Drouin and his agent can begin negotiations for a new deal. They are aiming for a contract longer than a year and one that pays more than his current $825,000 per season. While the idea of a $6 million per season contract seems far-fetched, a multi-year deal is more realistic. Last summer, Drouin was not in high demand, leading him to accept a one-year “test” contract, which he passed impressively, showcasing his value to the team.
Drouin, while immensely talented, is more effective as a support player rather than a leading star. Playing alongside Nathan MacKinnon and other Avalanche stars, he adds a unique touch to the team’s offensive strategies. Whether the Avalanche will re-sign him remains uncertain, but it is clear that Drouin has the confidence to continue his journey with Colorado. Notably, MacKinnon is pleased to play with his former Mooseheads teammate, which could influence the team’s decision.
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