The Colorado Avalanche just made a big move to beef up their defense, bringing in Brent Burns on a deal that could be worth up to $4 million.
The 40-year-old veteran isn’t getting any younger, but he’s still as durable as they come. He hasn’t missed a single game in 925 straight appearances – that’s the fourth-longest iron man streak in NHL history.
The contract is pretty straightforward: $1 million base salary, with a chance to earn another $3 million if he hits certain games-played targets.
Burns put up 29 points in 82 games with the Carolina Hurricanes last season. While that’s not quite the offensive fireworks we’ve seen from him in the past, he was still eating up nearly 21 minutes of ice time per game.
This isn’t just any defenseman we’re talking about. Burns has been one of hockey’s elite blueliners for over two decades. He’s got a Norris Trophy (2017’s best defenseman) and six All-Star appearances under his belt.
The numbers tell the story: 910 points in 1,497 regular-season games. In the playoffs? He’s added another 80 points in 135 games.
Colorado’s defense needed some depth, and Burns could slot in perfectly on their second or third pairing. While Cale Makar and Devon Toews lead the charge, Burns brings some serious experience to the mix.
There’s something poetic about this move. It’s giving off serious Ray Bourque vibes – another legendary defenseman who joined the Avs late in his career and finally won that elusive Stanley Cup.
Before landing in Colorado, Burns spent two solid years with Carolina after an incredible 11-season run with the San Jose Sharks. Now he’s chasing that championship dream with one of the NHL’s top contenders.
