The Colorado Avalanche are set to return to the ice, well sort of. The team will hold their Development Camp next week, Tuesday through Thursday, and released the roster on Sunday afternoon. There are some notable names on the list and some notable names missing. Development Camp is a great opportunity for the newly drafted young guns to get familiar with the organization and hone some of their skills. It is also a chance for the college kids that have yet to join the team to get feedback from the NHL organization on what needs to be worked on.
2025 Draft Picks
All three of this year’s draft picks will be present at the camp. However, forward Nolan Roed will not skate in any drills. It is unclear why he is not taking part, but usually it is because of an injury. Defensemen Linus Funck and Francesco Dell’Elce both will take part in drills throughout the three days. So Avalanche fans will get to see at least two of the picks for sure.
Colorado Eagles
Maroš Jedlička is returning to the Colorado Eagles after signing a one-year AHL contract and joining camp for the first time. Cooper Gay, who was an invite last year, joins as an Eagle this year. The very much hyped Sean Behrens returns to the ice after missing the entire season with a knee injury. And sitting out this summer will be Taylor Makar after a reported upper-body injury.
DU Pioneers and Invites
Last season we saw a flood of Denver Pioneers on the roster. This year that is not the case. There are only the two draft picks of Jake Fisher and Tory Pitner, both entering their sophomore seasons. A notable name on the invite list is goaltender Max LaCroix, son of former Avalanche Eric LaCroix and grandson of Pierre. He is currently attending Boston University.
Development Camp is always fun to go to since it is an opportunity for everyone to see the young up-and-coming talent. Sometimes, we may not see these kids for years. Or they are in the system with the Eagles and it is a chance to see them even more. Unfortunately, Avalanche fans will miss seeing newly signed Ilya Nabokov, rumored to be attending camp, but will not be there. This will be the last bit of hockey fans will have time to see until September when the Rookie Showcase heads to town. So take advantage, beat the heat, and see the future of the Avs.
