Colorado Avalanche Acquire Daniil Gushchin in Forward Swap with Sharks

The Colorado Avalanche have made a strategic move, acquiring high-scoring forward Daniil Gushchin from the San Jose Sharks in exchange for 2021 first-round pick Oskar Olausson. This one-for-one swap is being viewed as a change-of-scenery trade, primarily benefitting each team’s AHL affiliate — but Avalanche fans have reason to watch this one closely.

Gushchin, 22, was selected 76th overall in the 2020 NHL Draft and has quietly become a prolific scorer in the AHL. In 182 games with the San Jose Barracuda, he’s registered 70 goals and 150 points. Though his defensive game remains a work in progress — evidenced by his -48 career rating — his offensive instincts are undeniable. The Colorado Eagles, already the highest-scoring team in the AHL last season, will now feature Gushchin’s lethal scoring touch as they push for even more dominance.

In contrast, Olausson has struggled to meet expectations since being drafted 28th overall in 2021. Despite showing early promise in the OHL, he managed just 66 points in 163 AHL games with Colorado, and has yet to make a real case for NHL playing time. His move to San Jose may give him the developmental spark he needs.

Gushchin has played 18 NHL games to date, significantly more than Olausson’s four. While neither player is expected to make a major NHL impact this season without injuries to the top-six, the Avalanche have clearly prioritized near-term readiness and offensive upside with this deal.

This is a smart gamble by Colorado — bringing in a talented, motivated scorer who could become a valuable call-up option or evolve into a trade asset down the road. Keep an eye on Gushchin in Loveland this season.