NHL Update: Colorado Avalanche sign defenseman Sam Malinski to four-year contract extension

The Colorado Avalanche secured its blue-line defense by signing Sam Malinski to a contract extension. Malinski has steadily earned the trust of his coaches through his intelligent position play, his reliable performance, and his constant ability to play effectively on both offense and defense.

The development of his skills has caused him to become more vital to the Colorado team's extensive defensive unit.He developed his skills step by step after remaining undrafted through his first two years until joining the Bismarck Bobcats in the NAHL and later playing three years at Cornell University before turning professional in 2023. His consistent performance and ability to play important minutes throughout games have established him as a reliable choice for teams competing in the Stanley Cup playoffs.

Why does Sam Malinski’s extension matter for the Colorado Avalanche’s Stanley Cup push?

The Colorado Avalanche announced Sam Malinski's four-year contract extension, which carries an annual value of $4.75 million. The current contract for Malinski will finish in the upcoming summer, but the extension will keep his contract active until 2026 with a salary cap impact of $1.4 million for the 2025-26 season.

Sam Malinski made his NHL debut in 2023-24, posting 10 points in 23 games, and skated in 76 contests the following year.

He played 149 career games through three seasons and scored 11 goals and 49 points.PuckPedia reports that Malinski's contract includes a complete no-trade clause, which lasts for two years and then shifts to a 10-team limited no-trade clause in his third year and a six-team limited no-trade clause in his fourth year. He had been slated to become an unrestricted free agent after 2025-26.Avalanche general manager Chris McFarland praised Malinski's defensive dedication, skating ability, and puck-handling talent by describing him as "a dependable defenseman who plays for our team." The Colorado team currently leads the NHL and Central Division with a record of 35-6-9 and they intend to use Malinski's defensive skills during their upcoming match against the Ottawa Senators on Wednesday in Kanata, Ontario.Malinski's extension provides the Avalanche with immediate defensive support through his contract while also delivering long-term value because of his consistent performance development.