The Colorado Avalanche are making a crucial addition ahead of the stretch run, finalizing a deal to bring Philadelphia Flyers stalwart defenseman Sean Walker to Denver.
“Hearing Philadelphia is working on a trade that would send Sean Walker to Colorado,” reported Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman on Wednesday.
“Flyers have traded Sean Walker to Colorado,” The Athletic's Pierre LeBun confirmed shortly after.
The return hasn't been confirmed, but it looks as though the Avs gave up a first-round pick, as well as Ryan Johansen, to secure Walker's services. It's not a cheap price, but Walker will play a key role for this club down the stretch.
Although both the Toronto Maple Leafs and Edmonton Oilers were linked to the D-man as late as Wednesday, Colorado swooped in to acquire the veteran.
Walker figures to be an excellent addition to an Avalanche D-core that is as high-flying and offensive-minded as any in the National Hockey League. The veteran should bring a calming presence as the Avs look to win their second Stanley Cup in three seasons in 2024.
Sean Walker was linked to Toronto, Edmonton, but is headed to Denver
It was reported that the 29-year-old could be headed north to Canada, but instead Walker will pack his bags for the Mile High City to join the Avalanche for the rest of 2024. And Adam Henrique will be an Edmonton Oiler, instead.
“It’s been quiet for a few days between the Flyers and Walker’s camp on extension talks. I think the Flyers will circle back one last time there. So all the balls are up in the air, but the word on Tuesday is that calls with teams were gaining traction. The Flyers still want a first-round pick. Can they get it? The Toronto Maple Leafs and the Oilers have kept tabs with Philly, including over the last few days,” LeBrun wrote earlier on Tuesday.
The Flyers got their first-rounder, and Colorado added a key defensive piece as they eye another championship. Walker is in the midst of an excellent campaign, putting up six goals and 22 points over 63 games while averaging 19:35 of ice time per game.
He's in the final season of a four-year, $10.6 million contract, and is set to become an unrestricted free agent in the summer. This will probably be a rental for the Avalanche, but at first glance, it looks to be a savvy move for GM Chris MacFarland.
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