The Colorado Avalanche have officially acquired Nick Blankenburg, a defenseman, from the Nashville Predators. The trade was confirmed on Wednesday evening. The Avalanche exchanged a fifth-round draft pick in the 2027 NHL Draft for Blankenburg’s services.
About Nick Blankenburg
Nick Blankenburg, 27, has made a noticeable impact on the ice this season. He has scored six goals and tallied 21 points in 49 games with the Predators. Averaging 17:58 minutes of ice time, he has become a key player for the team.
Contract Details
- Height: 5’9″
- Position: Right-shot defender
- Contract Duration: Through the end of the 2025-26 season
- Cap Hit: $775,000
The Avalanche, currently leading the league, have been actively reshaping their defensive lineup this season. In a previous trade, they also acquired Brett Kulak in exchange for Samuel Girard.
Blankenburg’s Career Highlights
- Undrafted player
- Made NHL debut with the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2021-22 season
- Started professional career after playing at the University of Michigan
- Played in three NHL seasons with the Blue Jackets before joining the Predators
During the 2024-25 season with the Predators, Blankenburg set career highs: he played in 60 games and averaged 19:33 minutes on ice. He has already achieved new personal bests in goals, assists, and points this year.
Recent Trades by the Predators
Blankenburg is the third depth player from the Predators to be traded recently. His teammates, Michael McCarron and Cole Smith, were traded to the Minnesota Wild and Vegas Golden Knights, respectively, just a day earlier.
Current Standing and Statistics
The Nashville Predators currently sit fifth in the Central Division with a record of 27 wins, 26 losses, and 8 overtime losses. They have accumulated 62 points after 61 games played this season.
Throughout his career, Blankenburg has participated in 164 NHL games across five seasons with both the Blue Jackets and Predators, earning a total of 16 goals and 55 points. However, he has yet to make his Stanley Cup Playoff debut.
