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Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar just revealed what his team is lacking right now

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Theodore Mosby
December 22, 2025 (7:31 PM)

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The Colorado Avalanche are riding the NHL's best record, and head coach Jared Bednar is eyeing upgrades at the third-line center spot and on defense as the trade deadline nears, a need that could shape their Cup push. Colorado Avalanche depth has been strong, but Bednar's comments underline that versatility down the middle still matters.

Bednar acknowledged that while the roster has performed well overall, the Avalanche would benefit from a more reliable option at 3C, a role currently filled by Ross Colton, who has 5 goals and 14 points through 33 games, but still raises questions about matchups and defensive play.

Bednar wants more center depth.

A recent article by BVM Sports reports that among potential trade targets Bednar and the front office might consider are veteran centers like Ryan O'Reilly, who has scored 10 goals and 27 points in 33 games, and Nazem Kadri, posting 7 goals and 29 points in 34 games, though both names come with roster and negotiation challenges.

The Avalanche lead the league with a standout record, and the balance between keeping that chemistry and adding grit at 3C is a real front-office puzzle. The holiday break gives Colorado a moment to assess how their depth forwards are skating before serious trade talks ramp up.

Adding a third-line center isn't just about offense, it's about reliability in all zones once the postseason starts, and Bednar's public push shows the coaching staff is thinking long term about matchups and minutes distribution.

A savvy bottom-six pivot can tilt heavy minutes, and fans know 3C matters at deadline time. Bednar's message is clear, and the rumor mill is already spinning plenty of names.

Colorado's front office will have to balance assets, prospect depth, and cap flexibility, because enticing offers for a veteran 3C will come at a cost. The team's existing draft picks and young talent aren't abundant trade currency, so the Avs may have to get creative if they want a true third-line upgrade.

Where this search leads could define Colorado's playoff identity. If Bednar gets his third-line anchor, the Avalanche might feel more complete; without it, they risk heavy matchups exposing their depth.

Previously on Colorado Hockey Daily

Insider claims this Avalanche defenseman has completely rewritten his career

Why Colorado's 5-1 victory over the Wild means far more than you think

Connor McDavid just sent a clear warning to Avalanche star Nathan MacKinnon that has the entire NHL talking

POLL
DECEMBRE 22 \| 53 ANSWERS Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar just revealed what his team is lacking right now Do you think the Avalanche should trade for a third-line center before the deadline?
Yes	30	56.6 %
No	23	43.4 %
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Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar just revealed what his team is lacking right now

Bednar wants more center depth.

Do you think the Avalanche should trade for a third-line center before the deadline?