The Colorado Avalanche have re-signed Mark Alt to a two-year, two-way contract. Alt was claimed off waivers from the Philadelphia Flyers at the end of February, and played seven games for the Avalanche down the stretch. The contract will carry an average annual value of $725K in the NHL.
A 26-year old defenseman, Alt was originally selected 53rd-overall by the Carolina Hurricanes in 2010. By the time he finished his junior year at the University of Minnesota his rights had been traded to Philadelphia, where he signed and joined their minor league system. Though he made his NHL debut in early 2015, he wouldn’t suit up for the Flyers again until this season.
Alt does have some qualities that can lead one to believe he could take over a full-time role, but it still seems more likely that he’ll spend the year in the AHL. The 6’4″ defenseman has a crisp first pass and some offensive upside, but hasn’t really been able to grow those skills into a consistent presence.
The Avalanche already have several defensemen under contract for next year, and a few more scheduled to become restricted free agents. There would have to be quite a bit of turnover for Alt to secure a regular role out of camp, though he’ll provide a solid depth option should injuries arise.
AJ Haefele of BSN Denver broke the news on Twitter.
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