Grading Josh Manson’s $7.9 Million Contract Extension with the Avalanche

The Colorado Avalanche have made a calculated move to lock in one of their most rugged blueliners. Josh Manson has agreed to a two-year, $7.9 million contract extension that kicks in after the 2025–26 season. The deal carries an annual average value (AAV) of $3.95 million, slightly lower than his current $4.5 million AAV, signaling both loyalty and smart cap management from the Avs’ front office.

Contract Breakdown

• Length: 2 years (2026–27 and 2027–28 seasons)

• Total Value: $7.9 million

• AAV: $3.95 million

• Modified No-Trade Clause: 12-team list in Year 1, 10-team list in Year 2

This extension comes a year in advance, allowing Colorado to avoid a potential bidding war for Manson in unrestricted free agency.

On-Ice Value

Manson, 32, remains a physical force on the ice. Though injuries limited him to 48 games last season, he still managed 15 points, 105 hits, and 59 blocked shots while logging tough defensive minutes. His playoff experience remains invaluable—he contributed in all situations and was a steady presence on the penalty kill.

Despite being past his peak offensive years, Manson continues to bring what Colorado values most: toughness, positional discipline, and playoff composure. His fit next to puck-movers like Cale Makar or Devon Toews makes him an ideal stay-at-home partner.

Strategic Fit for Colorado

With Bowen Byram traded and Sean Behrens still developing, the Avalanche needed to ensure defensive depth beyond 2026. Manson’s extension offers leadership and a bridge for younger blueliners. The reduced AAV also gives the team flexibility to build around its core without sacrificing defensive stability.

General Manager Chris MacFarland emphasized Manson’s leadership and experience as key reasons behind the deal. For a team eyeing another Stanley Cup run, consistency on the blue line is critical.

The Risks

Injuries are a concern. Manson has not played a full season since 2018–19, and his physical style can take a toll. However, the term is reasonable, and the team-friendly cap hit mitigates long-term risk.

Contract Grade: B+

• Value: A

• Risk Management: B–

• Team Fit: A–

• Longevity Concern: C+

Overall, this is a solid extension that makes sense for both sides. Manson gives Colorado a known quantity—grit, playoff pedigree, and defensive depth—at a fair price. The Avalanche avoid scrambling for a replacement in a thin defensive market, and Manson gets stability with a contender.

This move won’t dominate headlines, but it’s the kind of under-the-radar decision that championship rosters are built on. Avalanche fans should feel confident in the foundation this deal helps secure.