The team signed Drouin to a one-year, 825k contract last summer. The organization was likely hoping to find some of that chemistry Drouin had with Nathan Mackinnon when they both played for the Halifax Mooseheads in the QMJHL. The gamble paid off as Drouin set career highs in goals with 19 and points with 56. After the team was eliminated in the second round, the winger revealed that he would love to re-sign with the Avalanche.
Head coach Jared Bednar has consistently praised Drouin's game, citing his willingness to work on his game as he's developed a much more well-rounded 200 foot game this season. His comments from earlier this year seem like those made by a coach that wants the player back on his team next season.
Bednar just might get his wish as NHL insider David Pagnotta revealed today that his sense is that the Avs will come to an agreement with the 29-year-old. The Avalanche could certainly use the help in the top six with Valeri Nichuskin suspended 6 months and Gabe Landeskog possibly done for his career.
Only time will tell whether or not the Avalanche will re-sign Drouin, but the fit seems to make too much sense for them to not pull the trigger on it. After all, he will get a raise, but he shouldn't be demanding anything too crazy considering his history on his previous deal with the Canadiens. Be sure to stay tuned to the Avs as they could announce an extension for Drouin in the coming days or weeks.
