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After a dreadful 2016-17 campaign, the Colorado Avalanche are looking to have a better season for the 2017-18 season when it starts up this October. However, in order for the Avalanche to accomplish this feat, they have to become better on all fronts.
Several moves have been made that will allow the Avalanche to be better this upcoming season, and fans should take notice. Granted, there are still some more moves that have to be made until the Avs become a cup contending team, but you have to take one step at a time in the rebuilding process.
Jonathan Bernier
Fresh off of having a successful season with the Anaheim Ducks, Bernier will be a solid backup goalie behind Semyon Varlamov, as he hopes to finally be rid of his injury bug after going under the knife to fix his groin injury issues.
Last season with the Ducks, Bernier had a save percentage of .915, and a GAA of 2.50.
Colin Wilson
After being able to experience the thrill of making it to the Stanley Cup finals with the Nashville Predators for the first time in their franchise history, Wilson will be bringing a different attitude to the Colorado Avalanche. Similar to Bernier, Wilson will be bringing some veteran experience onto this Avs roster.
Wilson provides the Avs with a gritty style of play, and ability to play an exceptional two-way style that will improve Avs on the defensive side of the game. Wilson is also able to fill into any line, ranging from the top line all the way to the fourth line.
Nail Yakupov
Of all of the signings that have occurred, this is the one that has many fans up in arms. However, the fans should not worry. The deal itself is a fairly low risk and has plenty of high rewards. The former first overall pick has fallen from grace and will be eager to prove himself when the season begins with the Avalanche.
Yakupov provides a scoring sense for the Avalanche, which will be valuable considering the lack of scoring last season. He always wants the puck, and he pushes the pace with his play.
Andrei Mironov
This is the one that has the majority of the Avs fans excited, as Mironov is joining the Colorado Avalanche after a KHL playoff run with Dynamo Moscow. Mironov was not able to compile a huge point total for the likes of Dynamo Moscow, but he brings energy to any team that he plays for with his large open ice hits and overall hard working playing style. The 22-year-old defenseman will look to improve this Avalanche team who drafted him in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft. This is the one that has the majority of the Avs fans excited, as Mironov is joining the Colorado Avalanche after a KHL playoff run with Dynamo Moscow.
Mironov will improve the Avs defense by adding a physical presence, that will be linked perfectly with Nikita Zadarov. Obviously, some more moves will have to be made before the Avs have a shot at being a Cup contender, but bringing in Mironov with drastically improve the team.
Which of the new faces are you most excited for?