Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

The Colorado Avalanche have made a significant move to solidify their defensive lineup by signing Devon Toews to a new seven-year contract worth $7.25 million per year. The deal ensures the continuity of one of the league’s most formidable defensive duos, promising a bright future for the Avalanche. Toews said he was looking to sign with the Avalanche and finish his career with the organization. This deal will likely allow him to do so.

“Getting a deal done with Devon Toews at the start of the season was a priority for us,” said general manager Chris MacFarland.  “He has emerged as one of the best defensemen in the NHL and is a huge part of the core of this team.”

Toews, while expressing his dedication to the Avalanche, made it clear that while he was willing to accept a discounted contract, he expected a fair offer. Despite his preference to stay with the Avalanche, he acknowledged his market value as a free agent, emphasizing the importance of a reasonable deal. “My intent is to stay here the rest of my career,” Toews affirmed, underlining his loyalty to the team.

Toews’ commitment to the Avalanche organization played a pivotal role in expediting the negotiation process. He expressed his desire to avoid prolonged discussions, stating, “I’d rather it not drag on into the season. If we’re able to get that done, that would be awesome.” His eagerness to secure his future with the team highlights his dedication and determination to contribute to the Avalanche’s success in the seasons to come.

Avalanche Get the Deal Done Without It Dragging Into the Season

The Avalanche management expressed their satisfaction in retaining Toews, recognizing his exceptional skills and the positive impact he brings to the team. Fans can now look forward to witnessing the continued synergy between Toews and Cale Makar, a formidable duo.

The Avalanche’s defensive core didn’t get any better today, but they made sure it wasn’t going to get worse for a long time.

The Avalanche have inked eight players until 2026-27, including Nathan MacKinnon, Gabriel Landeskog, Valerie Nichushkin, Arttuir Lehkonen, Ross Colton, Makar, Toews, and Samuel Girard. Mikko Rantanen is up for an extension in the summer after his 2024-25 contract ends.

More must-reads:

TODAY'S BEST
Mavericks ride 'Luka Magic' on both ends late to win Game 1
Panthers shut out Rangers 3-0 in Eastern Conference Final opener
NBA announces 2023-24 All-NBA teams
Star Padres infielder to miss significant time with shoulder injury
LeBron James, Charles Barkley passionately defend Caitlin Clark from 'petty' haters
Roger Goodell discusses factors for possible 18-game NFL season
Cowboys QB Dak Prescott has intriguing comment on his contract situation
Celtics toying around with surprise Jayson Tatum move in conference finals
Former teammate warns Tee Higgins about pitfalls of playing on franchise tag
Watch: Timberwolves and Mavericks trade dunks in third quarter
Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner tempers expectations for Juan Soto extension
Canucks' Rick Tocchet wins 2024 Jack Adams Award
Incredible Orioles streak finally comes to end against Cardinals
Raiders QB shares surprising reason for switching jersey number
New Jersey Devils to hire just-fired head coach to lead bench
Latest announcements show how deep Knicks' injury issues ran
Veteran WR announces retirement after nine seasons
Eagles stars defend new DC following criticism
Steelers first-round pick still confident following 'rough' practice
Angel Reese pulls notable sports ownership move