Colorado Avalanche defenseman Josh Manson. Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Avalanche re-sign D Josh Manson before NHL free agency starts

By Chelena Goldman | Last updated 7/13/22

Before the madness and hysteria of NHL free agency could kick in, the Colorado Avalanche inked a deal to keep defenseman Josh Manson in the Mile High City.

The Stanley Cup champions re-signed the veteran blue liner to a four-year extension on Wednesday morning, shortly before the free-agent market opened. The deal carries an average annual value of $4.5 million.

Josh Manson is staying with the @Avalanche after signing a 4-year extension, per @FriedgeHNIC. ✍️

Thoughts on the deal? #NHLFreeAgency | #GoAvsGo pic.twitter.com/tNf2ZEiuWw
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) July 13, 2022

The 30-year-old defenseman registered seven points (two goals, five assists) in 22 games for Colorado after being acquired from the Anaheim Ducks on March 14. During the Avalanche's playoff run, he recorded eight points, setting career playoff highs with three goals and five assists. His first-ever playoff goal was an overtime game-winner against the St. Louis Blues to kick off the second round of the Stanley Cup playoffs.

"Josh was a huge addition to our back end down the stretch and into the playoffs," Avalanche general manager Chris MacFarland said, via the team's website. "He played big minutes on our second pairing throughout the postseason, providing a tough, steady presence in the defensive zone while also contributing on the offensive end with some key goals. Getting him under contract for the next four years helps further solidify our blue line."

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