Insider reports suggest the Colorado Avalanche quietly explored Ross Colton as a potential cap casualty ahead of the trade deadline, signaling growing pressure on their 2026–27 roster decisions.
A quiet roster decision in Colorado could have ripple effects across the Avalanche lineup this offseason as salary-cap pressure once again forces hard choices.
Insider Links Colton To Possible Cap Moves
Speaking on the On The Sheet podcast, NHL Network’s David Pagnotta suggested Ross Colton’s name came up in internal discussions ahead of the trade deadline, particularly in the context of flexibility under the salary cap.
“They were exploring Ross Colton ahead of the trade deadline in the event that they needed to create additional cap space, that could be another perhaps casualty of their cap situation moving forward,” Pagnotta stated.
The comment underscored how Colton has already been part of Colorado’s cap planning conversations rather than just a peripheral roster piece.
A Drop In Production And Shifting Role
Colton’s offensive output took a noticeable step back in 2025–26, finishing with 9 goals and 15 assists for 24 points in 73 games. That decline stands out when compared to prior seasons, especially given he played fewer games in 2024–25 yet produced more efficiently.
His strongest offensive season with the Avalanche came in 2023–24, when he posted 17 goals and 23 assists for 40 points, immediately establishing himself as a useful middle-six scorer capable of contributing secondary offense.
In 2025–26, Colton averaged 12:31 of ice time per game in the regular season before dropping to 9:40 in the postseason, reflecting a reduced role as lineup competition increased.
Playoff Usage And Contract Situation
Colton was scratched for the first two games of Colorado’s opening-round series against the Los Angeles Kings before returning to the lineup and settling into a more stable role.
He went on to contribute during the Avalanche’s run to the Western Conference Final against the Vegas Golden Knights, finishing that series with one goal and one assist during a stretch where Colorado struggled offensively.
Carrying a $4 million cap hit, Colton now sits in a tier of contracts that often becomes movable when teams look to create flexibility. With his production trending downward and his role less defined, he has emerged as a name to watch heading into the 2026–27 offseason.
Will Ross Colton be the first casualty of the offseason? Let us know what you think in the comments below.
