Analyst claims Avalanche may have pulled off a sneaky win in the Mikko Rantanen blockbuster

The NHL world was shaken last season when the Colorado Avalanche dealt superstar forward Mikko Rantanen to the Dallas Stars in a stunning blockbuster but a few analysts make a case that the trade was pretty even.

In return, Colorado landed Martin Necas and Jack Drury, two players who were expected to fill key roles but faced immediate skepticism from fans and analysts. Now, one year later, Drury may be proving that this deal wasn't as lopsided as many first thought.

The 25-year-old forward is entering the final year of his contract and, according to Avalanche reporters, looks determined to silence doubters. Ryan O'Hara of Mile High Hockey recently wrote that Drury's performance in camp has shown he's ready to take on a much larger role.

"Based on his performance during Tuesday morning's optional skate at Family Sports Center, Drury left little doubt about his value. On the ice, he demonstrated the skill, poise, and competitiveness that suggest he is more than ready to play a pivotal role for the Avalanche this upcoming season."

Jack Drury's growth could redefine the Avalanche's depth

Since arriving in Colorado, Drury has been described as a tireless worker, and that effort may finally translate into a breakout year. O'Hara highlighted how Drury was not only finishing plays but also driving them, creating zone entries with speed and forcing defenders into mistakes.

In one standout moment during practice, newly acquired Victor Olofsson set him up with a perfectly timed pass, and Drury buried it with a one-timer that reportedly echoed through the rink.

"From the moment he stepped onto the ice, Drury played with the force and inevitability of a locomotive," O'Hara noted, suggesting the young forward is beginning to look like more than just a depth piece.

If Drury can solidify himself as Colorado's third-line center, the Avalanche could ice one of the deepest top-nine forward groups in the NHL. Paired with an elite defensive corps and a goaltender entering his prime, the foundation remains strong even without Rantanen.

As Avalanche Insider argued, the deal may eventually be viewed less as a loss of a superstar and more as a reshaping of Colorado's roster depth.

It's still too early to declare a winner, but the signs point to the Avalanche being in far better shape than many expected.

Personally, I think Drury's development is the biggest storyline to watch. If he makes the leap, this blockbuster could look like a quiet win for Colorado after all.