The Colorado Avalanche made a notable splash before the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline, acquiring forward Casey Mittelstadt from the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for defenseman Bowen Byram. While the Avalanche parted ways with a promising youngster in Byram, this move also gave them their much-needed second-line center.
Following the move, Mittelstadt posted four goals and 10 points in 18 regular-season games with the Avalanche. It was a decent start to his Avalanche tenure, but he notably took his game to a higher level during the playoffs. He had three goals and nine points in 11 playoff games for the Avalanche.
Casey Mittelstadt © Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Mittelstadt seemed to settle into the Avalanche's system as he continued to play more games. Because of this and his high potential, he is a prime candidate to hit new heights with the Avalanche in 2024-25.
Mittelstadt has shown great promise these past two seasons, posting 59 points and 57 points, respectively. He has proven that he is a serviceable second-line forward, but the potential for him to improve his offensive game further is there. He is set to play his first full season with the Avalanche's stars, which could benefit his offensive production. In addition, he will surely be a big part of their power play because of his playmaking skills.
Nevertheless, seeing if Mittelstadt puts together a career year from here will be intriguing. The potential for him to do so is there, but time will tell what comes to fruition on that front.
