Avs extend Nick Holden: 3 years, $4.95M

We all know who Nick Holden is, so I won't go into details. I'll simply point out that he has been signed by the Avalanche to a three-year extension with a total value of $4.95M. It breaks down to $1.8M, $1.65M and $1.8M per year respectively.

Holden broke out last season and shows promise for development. He registered 10 goals and 15 assists in 54 games last season.

From the Avs press release:

"Nick was a big part of our defense last season," said Avalanche Executive Vice President of Hockey Operations Joe Sakic. "He provided offense from our blue line and played with a lot of confidence as the season moved on.  We are pleased that he will continue to be a part of our team."

Holden, 27, finished second among Avalanche defensemen with 10 goals while appearing in 54 games during his first full NHL season in 2013-14.  The St. Albert, Alberta native ranked fourth among Colorado defenders in points (25) and assists (15).  Holden’s +12 plus/minus rating finished second among Avs defensemen and fifth overall on the team.

Holden went on to lead all Colorado defensemen with three goals and four points (3g/1a) in seven games during the Stanley Cup Playoffs.  He finished with a team-high 25 hits in the postseason.

Originally signed by Columbus as a non-drafted free agent in 2008, Holden signed a two-year contract with the Avalanche last summer on July 5, 2013.  The 6-foot-4, 207-pound blueliner has appeared in 61 career games between the Avs and Blue Jackets, totaling 25 points (10g/15a).