The Colorado Avalanche have shaken up their lineup just before the trade deadline, landing veteran center Charlie Coyle from the Boston Bruins in a deal that sends Casey Mittelstadt the other way.
It’s not a straight-up swap though. The Bruins are also getting forward prospect Will Zellers and a 2024 second-round pick, while Colorado picks up a 2026 fifth-rounder along with Coyle.
The trade shows just how differently these two players’ seasons have gone. Coyle, who just turned 33, had his best year ever last season with 60 points. But he’s struggled big time this year, with just 22 points in 64 games and a career-worst minus-14 rating.
He’s not cheap either. The Avs will be paying him $5.25 million through next season, which is quite a gamble if he can’t turn things around.
But there’s a reason Colorado wanted him. Coyle’s been money in the playoffs, putting up 52 points in 119 postseason games. Even more impressive? He hasn’t missed the playoffs in 12 straight years.
For the Bruins, they’re getting younger and potentially better with Mittelstadt. The 25-year-old has put up solid numbers the last two seasons – 59 and 57 points. While he’s having a down year too (34 points in 63 games), it’s not nearly as dramatic as Coyle’s decline.
There are some warning signs though. Mittelstadt’s been pretty rough in the faceoff circle, winning just 42.4% of his draws. And his even-strength production has taken a hit.
The real surprise here is what Boston got on top of Mittelstadt. Will Zellers looks like he could be something special. The 18-year-old is tearing up the USHL with 58 points in 40 games for Green Bay. He’s exactly the kind of exciting prospect the Bruins’ system needs.
For Colorado, it’s clear they’re all-in on this season. Adding Coyle just a day after getting Brock Nelson shows they’re loading up for another Stanley Cup run.
The Bruins, meanwhile, seem to be thinking more about the future. Getting younger with Mittelstadt, adding a prospect, and grabbing another draft pick fits their apparent plan to rebuild while staying competitive.
