3 Defensemen The Colorado Avalanche Should Target

We recently reported that the Colorado Avalanche are on the hunt for a new defenseman. With the current injuries to Bowen Byram and Ryan Murray, this is understandable. Ultimately, they could add defensemen on either side when looking at their current roster. Here are three who could be intriguing to them.

Justin Holl: The Toronto Maple Leafs have been shopping Justin Holl for a few months now, but at this juncture, a trade has not come into fruition. It wouldn't hurt the Avalanche to acquire a right-handed defenseman who can be moved around the lineup. In 24 games this season, the 29-year-old defenseman has an assist and an even rating.

Ben Chiarot: Could the Avalanche and Montreal Canadiens make another trade? If so, one has to wonder if they could strike a deal involving Ben Chiarot. In 31 games this season, he has five goals to go along with two assists. Although he has a minus-11 rating, Montreal's struggles as a collective unit can be blamed for that. Overall, adding a very physical defenseman to the blue line could be beneficial for Colorado.

Erik Gustafsson: If Colorado is looking to add more of a depth defenseman, Erik Gustafsson could be a nice consolation prize. The 29-year-old is quietly having himself a solid campaign in his return to the Chicago Blackhawks. In 28 games, he has a goal and seven points. Most notably, however, he is one of the few players on the team who actually has a plus rating. He could work well as a seventh d-man for them.