Sam Malinski is a quiet force.

He doesn’t offer the size of Keaton Middleton or the speed of Cale Makar. However, he offers reliability, consistency, and most of all, depth.

His statistics in the 2024–2025 season were an improvement from his first NHL appearance in 2023–2024. He showed clear signs of development, both in his defensive awareness and ability to adapt to pace and roster changes.

Malinski tallied nine assists and also scored four goals. He also had several goals overturned.

He is not an “offensive defenseman” like those on the top line. When playing with blue-line teammates as seasoned and talented as Makar and Devon Toews, he doesn’t need to be. Instead, he favors locking down the defensive zone.

Malinski absorbed 194 hits and delivered 52 of his own. He also blocked 99 shots to help his goaltenders.

It is important to frame his statistics in this being his first full NHL season. He suited up for 76 games, a sizable jump from his previous 23, proving he could handle the physical and mental demands of a full campaign.

Prior to joining the Avalanche roster full time, he was still in the organization. At the AHL level with the Colorado Eagles, he was an asset. He came up with only five goals, but he also notched 22 assists, showcasing his ability to move the puck and be in the right place at the right time.

Malinski is not flashy. He’s not on the highlight reels. But that doesn’t make him any less valuable.

In 2024, his hard work at training camp resulted in a one-way, $1.4 million contract offer, proving he was a good fit for the Avalanche roster.

Now, heading into his contract extension before becoming a UFA in 2025–2026, he will seek to solidify his home in Denver. If he continues on this trajectory and improves with more experience, he will become an under-the-radar force in the burgundy and blue.