Avalanche Recall: Alex Gagne's Late-Season Call-Up
In a surprising move, the Colorado Avalanche have recalled Alex Gagne from the AHL Colorado Eagles, just days before the start of the Western Conference Final against the Golden Knights. This decision comes as a bit of a mystery, especially considering the team's current injury situation.
Gagne, a 23-year-old defenseman, has been a regular fixture in the Eagles' lineup during their Pacific Division Final series against Coachella Valley. He's played all eight postseason games so far, showcasing his defensive prowess and contributing a goal and 12 assists. However, his lack of NHL experience and the team's depth on defense make this recall a curious one.
The Avalanche's defense is currently a mess, with Cale Makar, Brent Burns, Josh Manson, and Sam Malinski all dealing with minor injuries. This has left the team in a vulnerable position, and Gagne's recall could be seen as a precaution. Despite his strong performance in the AHL, Gagne is not considered an impact player or a long-term solution for the Avalanche.
What makes this move even more intriguing is the fact that Gagne's entry-level deal is for two years. This means the team has another season before they need to make a decision on a qualifying offer. By giving him a look in the postseason, the Avalanche are essentially signaling that he's in good standing within the organization.
However, one must question the wisdom of this move. With the team's current injury woes, it's possible that Gagne's recall is more about sending a message to the Eagles than it is about providing immediate help. Nevertheless, it's an interesting development that could have implications for the team's future.
In my opinion, the Avalanche's decision to recall Gagne is a bit of a head-scratcher. While it's understandable to want to ensure the team's depth, it's also a bit of a risk given his limited NHL experience. Only time will tell if this move was a smart one or just a temporary band-aid solution.
