Avalanche Mailbag 2.0: Potential PTO Options; Is Laine Worth a Reclamation Project?

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Avalanche Mailbag 2.0: Potential PTO Options; Is Laine Worth a Reclamation Project?

Avalanche Mailbag 2.0: Potential PTO Options; Is Laine Worth a Reclamation Project? — IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Aarif Deen · Colorado Hockey Now

Wed, Sep 9, 2026 ·

3 min read

Question from Jedwin

The Avs have been linked at various times this off-season to both Patrik Laine and Jonathan Drouin. The former as a career reclamation project, and the latter returning to the location where he enjoyed the most success. Do you see any path to, and more importantly, fit with the Avs for either of those guys before or during camp? Have you heard any concrete rumors about either of them?

Aarif's Response

I haven't heard any concrete rumors about either one, but I have thought a lot about both guys as options. Laine is intriguing for many reasons, but it's also not easy to forget why he's in this position in the first place. I really thought Montreal would be where he revives his career, but perhaps a fresh start in a quieter market like Colorado would help his case. My biggest issue with Laine is his defensive game. Even if he impressed, even if he scored goals, he's often a negative impact defensively, and that would be an easy way to lose trust in Jared Bednar.

Drouin, I just can't see it unless the team falls into injury trouble and want to bring in a player they already know out of sheer desperation.

Aarif's Response

I'd say any of Smith and Henrique could make sense if (and only if) the young guys don't do enough. Which, you probably don't want to see that if you're the Avs.

If Fedor Svechkov struggles to fit in as 4C, and if nobody else in the organization makes sense in that role, perhaps Henrique could make sense. Same for that last winger spot available. If none of the young guys step up, Smith could be a decent last-minute option. Or maybe even Drouin.

But you're asking about PTOs, and I'm writing about a hypothetical scenario that involves signing these guys midseason. That should answer your question.

Basically, I don't think the Avs are going to be big players in the PTO market this year. If they are, it's simply for extra veteran insurance in case the kids don't do well. I think Sakic has done an exceptional job this summer of compiling as many "green bananas" as possible to inspire competition at camp. I don't know if he needs added PTO vets to do the trick.

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