Avalanche extend defenseman Sam Malinski on four-year deal

The Colorado Avalanche have locked up a key piece of their blueline for the long haul. On Tuesday, the team announced a four-year contract extension for defenseman Sam Malinski, rewarding his impressive breakout performance this season.[1]

Malinski, who has emerged as a reliable top-four presence, signed the deal reportedly worth $19 million with an average annual value of $4.75 million. This keeps the 27-year-old under contract through the 2029-30 season. His rapid rise has been a bright spot for an Avalanche squad aiming to contend deep into the playoffs once again.

Malinski’s breakout 2025-26 season

Sam Malinski has shattered personal benchmarks in his third full NHL campaign. Averaging 16 minutes and 43 seconds of ice time per game, he’s posted career highs of 21 assists and 24 points. That assist total ranks him second among Colorado defensemen, trailing only Norris Trophy winner Cale Makar.[1]

His puck-moving skills have shone through in transition plays and power-play contributions. Malinski’s skating ability allows him to join the rush effectively while maintaining defensive structure. Opponents have found it tough to contain his outlet passes, which frequently spring forwards like Nathan MacKinnon on breakaways.

The Minnesota native’s growth stems from dedicated offseason work on his positioning and decision-making. Coaches have praised his commitment to both ends of the ice. This season’s output marks a significant leap from his prior roles as a depth option.

Fans have noticed the uptick too, with social media buzzing about his seamless integration into the top pairs.[2] Malinski’s plus-minus rating reflects his positive impact, helping stabilize shifts against top competition.

Looking at his development curve:

• 2024-25: 11 goals, 17 assists in 82 games
• 2025-26 (to date): 3 goals, 21 assists in ~50 games
• Playoff experience: 1 assist in 5 games vs. Dallas last spring

These numbers underscore why the Avalanche acted swiftly to secure him.

Contract breakdown and cap implications

The extension carries a $4.75 million cap hit, a substantial raise from his previous $1.4 million deal.[3] Spanning four years, it provides stability without handcuffing the front office long-term. By 2029-30, Malinski will be 31, still in his defensive prime.

PuckPedia details the structure as straightforward, with no reported no-trade clauses or bonuses complicating matters. This AAV aligns with recent deals for similar puck-movers on contending teams. For context, it’s comparable to extensions for young defensemen like those on the Stars or Jets bluelines.

General manager Chris MacFarland emphasized Malinski’s value: “Sam is a hard-working defenseman who has great skating and puck-moving ability. His commitment to the defensive side of the game has turned him into a reliable defenseman for us.”[1]

Cap-wise, it fits amid upcoming extensions for stars like Makar. The Avalanche now have depth secured, freeing resources for forward tweaks.

As PuckPedia outlines, the deal totals exactly $19 million, positioning Colorado favorably under the flat cap.

Avalanche’s pattern of rewarding homegrown talent

Colorado has made a habit of extending up-and-coming players this season. Just last November, they inked Gavin Brindley to a two-year deal shortly after his first overtime winner.[4] Three months prior, Martin Necas signed an eight-year, $92 million pact through 2034.

This approach mirrors successful models from Tampa Bay and Florida. By locking in cost-controlled assets, the Avs maintain flexibility around their core.

Malinski, signed as a college free agent in March 2023 from Cornell, exemplifies this pipeline. His path from undrafted to NHL regular highlights scouting prowess.

Other recent moves include depth signings, signaling a build-from-within philosophy. As detailed in the official Avalanche announcement, the team views him as foundational.[5]

This table shows commitment to youth.

From Cornell captain to NHL fixture

Malinski’s journey began at Cornell University, where he captained the team in 2022-23. The 5-foot-11, 190-pound right-shot defender tallied strong ECAC numbers before turning pro.

Signed post-graduation, he earned an NHL roster spot for 2024-25. Over 149 regular-season games, he’s amassed 11 goals and 38 assists. Playoff minutes last year against Dallas honed his game.

Hailing from Lakeville, Minnesota, his work ethic resonates with the Avalanche’s gritty ethos. Teammates credit his quiet leadership in the room.

Elite Prospects notes his extension details, affirming his trajectory.[6] At 27, prime years lie ahead.

Comparisons to steady rearguards like Jaccob Slavin surface, given his two-way reliability.

Looking ahead for Colorado’s blueline

With Malinski extended, questions swirl around Sam Girard and others. The right-side depth pairs well with Makar and newcomers.

This move bolsters playoff hopes, especially after last spring’s early exit. Colorado sits atop the Central Division, poised for another Cup run.

MacFarland’s strategy pays dividends now. Expect Malinski to log even heavier minutes as the season progresses.

Ultimately, this extension cements a bright future, blending youth and experience for sustained contention. Avalanche fans can exhale—the pipeline flows strong.