Colorado Avalanche: News from around the NHL September 16th, 2014

Siemens hopes that this year is "his year".

Colorado Avalanche prospect Duncan Siemens was the fourth defenseman picked in the 2011 NHL draft, at No. 11. That's NHL-or-bust territory and, based on other Avs picked in the first round from 2009 to 2013, as well as first-round defensemen picked in his draft class, Siemens is a step behind.

But by no means is he considered a bust.

"It's been a different three years, for sure," Siemens said Monday after Day 1 of the Avs' three-day rookie camp. "I think any player that gets drafted, whether it's the first or last round, they want to make that jump. All of us want to play in the NHL one day and all of us want to get there as fast as possible. Everyone is going to have different route.

"I've accepted that, and the organization has been very supportive."

If you are in Colorado Springs and you want your picture taken with the Cup, I've got information you may want.

Hockey lovers, here's your chance for the ultimate Christmas card picture. Lord Stanley's Cup will make a stop at the Broadmoor World Arena on Tues., Sept. 30 from 4-6:30 p.m. for a free photo opp.

The Stanley Cup, unlike a lot of other trophies, lives a pretty eventful existence, often going on tour for publicity visits and, per NHL rules, a day with each player on the championship team. Its personal handler, Philip Pritchard, keeps a lively Twitter account of its travels.

Palushaj is heading to the KHL.

KHL outfit Medvescak Zagreb has brought aboard two more former NHLers, signing forwards James Wright (formerly of Winnipeg) and Aaron Palushaj (formerly of Carolina) to new deals.