Ottawa Trades Namestnikov to Avalanche

Elliotte Friedman noted that Vladislav Namestnikov has been traded to the Colorado Avalanche. A Stanley Cup contending team in Colorado the Avs have been ravaged by injury.

The Senators will receive a 2021 fourth-round pick in return.

Namestnikov to COL

— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) February 24, 2020

Namestnikov adds depth to the Avs lineup and where he fits in will be interesting. A team that does a lot off the rush will need to add a few pieces today to really be considered a contender.

Darren Dreger reported earlier in the week that the Senators were working some asset management and had pulled Namestnikov from the lineup. A trade was expected and it was a matter of when and to whom, not if he was moved. At that time, Dreger noted the Toronto Maple Leafs, Winnipeg Jets, Colorado Avalanche and Columbus Blue Jackets as the teams he’s heard are circling.

What Does Namestnikov Bring to the Avalanche?

Throughout his career, Namestnikov was thought to be a skilled offensive center; however, his play has not proven to be up to that standard and at $3.25 million he hasn’t given his teams much in terms of offense. He has kicked around with the Tampa Bay Lightning, the New York Rangers and this season with the Ottawa Senators; however, he’s only scored 20 goals (exactly) in one season – 2017-18 with the Lightning.

He’s known to be a reliable finisher with a good wrist shot. He’s also a good passer and playmaker who can skate. Perhaps he can add secondary offense with the Avalanche. The team didn’t give up much to get him.