Colorado Avalanche

Avalanche & Predators Trade Exchanges Two Young Forwards

The Colorado Avalanche and Nashville Predators have swapped two young centerman in a trade. What does this mean for each team?

by
Jordan Manning
December 28, 2024

The Colorado Avalanche have just made a deal to acquire young centerman Juuso Parssinen alongside a 2026 7th-round pick from the Nashville Predators. In return, the Predators receive Ondrej Pavel and the New York Rangers 2027 3rd-round pick.

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Colorado Is Making an Already Young Squad Even Younger

At an average age of 28 years, the Avalanche have one of the youngest rosters in the league. With the addition of Parssinen, they become even younger. Parssinen, 23, was drafted by the Predators in the 7th round in 2019. In his short career with Nashville, he has tallied 42 points in 104 games.

Parssinen has been one of the underrated players on the Predators roster ever since his arrival. His smooth hands along with his checking abilities on defense have provided the Predators with a reliable bottom-six piece. He is known for his ability to quickly shift into gear when entering the offensive zone.

On a team like Colorado where speed is key to success, Parssinen has the opportunity to thrive but also to help his team get into a contending position. It’s exactly where they should be at this time of year.

Nashville Changing Their Roster for the Better

After a disappointing stretch the past couple of months, Nashville is looking to shake up its roster in hopes of finding the right pieces to get the team on track for success. As a result, GM Barry Trotz acquired prospect Ondrej Pavel.

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Signed as a free agent in 2020, Pavel has shown glimpses of skill on Colorado’s farm team. With the Colorado Eagles in the AHL, Pavel has tallied 12 points (six goals and six assists) in 75 games. His defensive skills have made him a promising prospect for the Avalanche.

With Nashville’s bottom six consisting of many physical, defensive players, Pavel suits the role well. Because Pavel is a centerman, he could easily take over the role Parssinen played with the team. Hopefully, he’ll be able to break out as an NHL starter.

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