3 Colorado Avalanche Not Expected Back Next Season

The Colorado Avalanche could be back-to-back Stanley Cup Champions when the 2023-24 season is over as they have just as good a chance as any team in the league this season. While their roster has gone through changes throughout the past couple of seasons, expect much more of the same this upcoming offseason, even if there's another parade in Denver. Here's three Avalanche players who aren't likely returning in Colorado:

Lars Eller

Very much a rental, Lars Eller was acquired from the Washington Capitals to supply some center depth in Colorado and that's likely just for the rest of this season. Eller is 33 years old and will be looking for a multi-year contract as it very well may be the last crack he has to get more than a one-year deal. Don't expect the Avs to offer much as they have limited cap space this upcoming offseason.

Darren Helm

An unfortunate run for Darren Helm, he only appeared in five games this season in Denver before hitting the IR. He is skating at the moment and could join the team down the stretch and into the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The 36-year-old checking forward isn't expected back in Colorado next season.

Alex Galchenyuk

The Avalanche gave Galchenyuk a late contract this season, signing him to a one-year league minimum deal in late November. While he's put up a point-a-game in the AHL this season, 33/33, he hasn't been able to contribute much for the big club, going pointless in six games and a minus -5 rating. It's going to take a postseason miracle for the Avs to have any interest handing out another contract for 2023-24.

Photo credit:  Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports