Avs’ “Ecosystem” Mandate Could Be a Tough Sell to Martin Necas

When Pierre LeBrun reported that Colorado Avalanche management told Martin Necas’ camp there’s an “ecosystem” at play — one that includes a looming raise for Cale Makar — it raised more than a few eyebrows. The message is that Colorado would like to retain Necas but intends to prioritize their top defenseman, while keeping their internal salary structure intact. For someone like Necas, who is rumored to have contract issues everywhere he’s gone, it’s a bad omen.

In other words, the Avs are already letting Necas know he won’t get the payday In Colorado he could get elsewhere or one he might believe he deserves.

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That kind of thinking, as logical as it might be, likely won’t go over smoothly with a player like Necas. He’s entering the final year of a two-year, $13 million deal, and he’s having a great season, one that will earn him a significant raise. His combination of size, speed, and playmaking ability is evident and his production isn’t a new phenomenon. Necas is a talented star. He also doesn’t lack confidence, and he’ll be eager to maximize his earnings knowing that several teams will be ready to make a lucrative bid for his services.

The Avalanche are banking that he won’t want to leave Nathan MacKinnon. They’ll be selling that pairing in their negotiations. Whether it’s enough to keep him remains to be seen.

Necas May Not Be Content in a Supporting Role

The duo has been electric to start the season, combining for 13 goals and 26 points. But Necas may believe he can produce with anyone. Questions about whether he needs MacKinnon or can find chemistry with other top guys will be key to whether he’s ready to commit long-term in Colorado. Even still, he might want to be “the guy.”

Chris Johnston of The Athletic hinted that Necas’ next deal could test the boundaries of what the Avs are willing to spend, potentially rivaling Mikko Rantanen’s $12 million mark. That kind of figure would stretch Colorado’s self-imposed ecosystem to the breaking point.

If neither side budges, this could become a fascinating storyline to watch. The Avalanche certainly doesn’t want to let him walk away, but trading him hurts their chances of competing. He’s never going to be the top guy in Colorado and if that matters, this could go down a bumpy road.

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