Avalanche sign D Sam Malinski to 4-year extension

The Colorado Avalanche signed defenseman Sam Malinski to a four-year extension through the 2029-30 season on Tuesday.

Terms were not disclosed but Sportsnet reported the deal carries an average annual value of $4.75 million.

Malinski, 27, has set career highs in assists (21) and points (24) through 50 games this season. His plus-26 rating is tied for sixth among NHL blueliners.

"Sam is a hard-working defenseman who has great skating and puck-moving ability," Avalanche general manager Chris MacFarland said. "His commitment to the defensive side of the game has turned him into a reliable defenseman for us. We're excited to have him under contract for the following four seasons."

Malinski has 49 points (11 goals, 38 assists) through 149 career games with Colorado since making his NHL debut in November of 2023. The Minnesota native was undrafted out of Cornell.