Sam Malinski, a notable player for the Colorado Avalanche, received a four-year contract extension, ensuring his place with the team until the end of the 2029-30 season. This extension, announced on Tuesday, is valued at $4.75 million annually.
Career Highlights and Performance
At 27, Malinski has made significant achievements this season. He recorded career highs with 21 assists and 24 points over 50 games played. Despite facing challenges, he has scored three goals, just two shy of his personal record from the previous season.
Defensive Contribution
Malinski has averaged 16:31 minutes of ice time per game. Remarkably, all but two of his points have come during even-strength situations. His performance on the ice has not gone unnoticed.
- Sam Malinski’s contract: Four years, $4.75 million per season
- Career-high assists this season: 21
- Total points this season: 24
- Goals scored: 3 (two shy of last season’s record)
- Average ice time: 16:31 minutes per game
General Manager’s Statement
Chris MacFarland, the Avalanche’s general manager, praised Malinski’s work ethic and skills. “Sam is a hard-working defenceman with great skating and puck-moving ability,” he stated. “His dedication to defensive play has established him as a reliable player for our team. We look forward to having him under contract for the next four years.”
Background and Previous Achievements
Malinski joined the Avalanche as an undrafted college free agent in March 2023 and made his NHL debut in November of the same year. Across his career in the NHL, he has played 149 games, accumulating 11 goals and 38 assists. Furthermore, during his time in the AHL last season, Malinski excelled, scoring five goals and adding 22 assists in 46 games.
This contract extension reflects the Avalanche’s confidence in Malinski’s future contributions to the team’s success. As he continues to develop his skills, fans can expect to see more from this emerging talent.
