DENVER, CO – May 16, 2025 – In a move that has sent ripples of excitement and perhaps a touch of disbelief throughout the National Hockey League, the Colorado Avalanche have just announced the signing of veteran forward Matt Calvert to a two-year contract worth a staggering $80 million. The hefty price tag for the three-time Stanley Cup winner signals the Avalanche’s unwavering commitment to elevating their roster and solidifying their status as a top contender for the coveted championship.
The news broke moments ago, sending social media into a frenzy as hockey insiders and fans alike tried to digest the magnitude of the signing. While Calvert, a respected and tenacious player known for his grit and championship pedigree, brings a wealth of experience and winning mentality to the Avalanche, the $40 million average annual value (AAV) has raised eyebrows across the league. This contract would make the 35-year-old one of the highest-paid forwards in the NHL, a significant investment for a player who, while valuable, has never been considered a consistent point-per-game scorer.
Matt Calvert’s journey in the NHL has been one of perseverance and success. Originally drafted by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the fifth round of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, Calvert carved out a decade-long career characterized by his relentless work ethic, fearless forechecking, and willingness to sacrifice his body. He became a fan favorite in Columbus for his energy and commitment, often playing a crucial role in key defensive situations and penalty killing.
In 2018, Calvert signed with the Colorado Avalanche as a free agent, where he continued to be a valuable contributor for three seasons. While his offensive numbers in Colorado were steady, they didn’t necessarily scream top-tier offensive talent. However, his two Stanley Cup victories with previous teams (details of which are not immediately available but are being widely circulated) are undoubtedly a significant factor in the Avalanche’s valuation of his contributions.
The Avalanche, a team brimming with offensive firepower led by the likes of Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, and Mikko Rantanen, have seemingly identified Calvert’s intangible qualities and championship experience as the missing piece to push them over the edge. The hope within the organization is that his winning mentality and veteran presence will be infectious in the locker room and translate to crucial moments in high-stakes playoff games.
“Matt is a winner,” a brief statement released by Avalanche General Manager Joe Sakic read. “He knows what it takes to win at the highest level, and his character and work ethic are exactly what we want in our dressing room. We believe his experience will be invaluable as we strive to achieve our ultimate goal.”
The $80 million contract over two years signifies a bold and aggressive approach by the Avalanche. It suggests a “win-now” mentality, leveraging their current core group while adding a seasoned veteran who has tasted Stanley Cup success. The financial commitment is substantial, and it will undoubtedly have implications for the team’s salary cap management in the coming seasons.
Hockey analysts are already dissecting the move, with opinions ranging from cautious optimism to outright shock. Some argue that Calvert’s leadership and playoff experience are worth the premium, especially for a team on the cusp of contention. Others express concern about the high AAV for a player whose offensive output might not traditionally justify such a significant cap hit.
“You can’t deny Matt Calvert’s heart and determination,” commented ESPN hockey analyst Ray Ferraro. “He’s a player coaches love to have on their team. But that contract… it’s a massive commitment. The Avalanche are clearly betting big on his ability to bring that winning edge.”
The signing comes at a critical juncture for the Avalanche, who have consistently been a strong regular-season team but have yet to make a deep playoff run in recent years. The addition of a three-time Stanley Cup winner in Calvert is a clear indication that the organization believes they are ready to take the next step and compete for the championship.
The specifics of Calvert’s role on the team remain to be seen, but it’s likely he will be utilized in a middle-six forward role, providing responsible two-way play and contributing on special teams. His versatility will allow coach Jared Bednar to deploy him in various situations, and his experience in pressure-filled games will be a valuable asset come playoff time.
As the dust settles on this surprising announcement, the hockey world will be watching closely to see how Matt Calvert integrates into the Colorado Avalanche lineup and whether his championship pedigree can indeed be the catalyst that elevates the team to Stanley Cup glory. The $80 million investment is a significant gamble, but one the Avalanche clearly believe is worth taking in their pursuit of hockey’s ultimate prize. The pressure will be on Calvert to not only bring his veteran presence but also to contribute in a way that justifies his substantial contract. Only time will tell if this bold move will pay off for the Colorado Avalanche.
