Erik Brannstrom Finds New Home In Western Conference

After five+ seasons in Ottawa, former first-round pick Erik Brannstrom was cut loose by the Senators just before the Free Agent Frenzy began, adding him to the open market. The Colorado Avalanche have now stepped in and signed the puck-moving d-man to a one-year contract worth $900,000.

Brannstrom in burgundy and blue.#GoAvsGo pic.twitter.com/eRPUQadtkS
— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) July 2, 2024

The Senators declined to give Brannstrom a qualifying offer after a solid season in which he posted a career-high 20 points, and a plus/minus rating of +5 for the second straight year. He played 16:35 minutes per game. The Sens tried to trade him, but couldn't get any takers on his $2 million salary.

If he limits the turnovers, the breakout-passer and puck carrying blueliner should be able to find a spot on the third-pairing in Colorado.

Brannstrom was the No. 15 overall pick in the 2017 Draft, and in 266 NHL games, has registered seven goals and 62 assists for 69 points, averaging close to 17 minutes a night.