The Colorado Avalanche have signed Tristen Nielsen to a two-year, two-way contract through the 2026–27 season. Nielsen had signed an AHL contract with the Colorado Eagles on August 1, 2025, just before being invited to the Avalanche training camp in mid-September. There he was a standout among the AHL invites, with a hunger to prove himself that he wanted more.

Nielsen has been impressive for the Avalanche and the Eagles so far this season. In three preseason games, Nielsen scored three goals. Two of them were in his first game with the Avalanche at Magness Arena. Since then, Nielsen has become a big part of the Eagles’ first line. In seven games for the Eagles, the Canadian has scored three goals and tallied four assists.

“I like the way they play,” Nielsen said of the organization at the start of the month. “They play with pace, they’re fast, they’re physical, they’re hard to play against, and I just felt like it fit my skill set really well. And I like the organization a lot. I think they give every player an opportunity, no matter what deal you’re on or anything like that.” Nielsen also mentioned the camaraderie of the team.” I’ve heard nothing but good things about the guys. I’ve heard they’re a really tight-knit group, and it makes me really excited to be here.”

Last season, Nielsen was a member of the Abbotsford Canucks (VAN), where he helped win the Calder Cup Championship. He played in all five games against the Eagles but had only one assist in the series. He ended the playoff run with five goals and four assists in 24 games for the Canucks. Prior to playing the last couple of seasons with the Canucks, Nielsen played with the Calgary Hitmen and Vancouver Giants of the Western Hockey League. There he would rack up 175 points with 82 goals and 93 assists. Trent Miner would also be his teammate with the Giants from 2018 to 2021.

I mentioned when the Eagles signed Nielsen that this would be a great opportunity for the forward. That he would get plenty of experience in all situations. He has become vital in the top-six for the team and uses his speed to get around the corners. He has a sneaky wrist shot that catches goaltenders off guard, allowing him to score from the slot. Nielsen’s vision on the ice has been something to watch as well. He has made some passes that have left the fans in awe.

Nielsen will be a great call-up option for the bottom-six for the Avalanche if they have to. If he stays in Loveland, he will be a leader on and off the ice with his playoff experience from last season.