Colorado Avalanche Signs Veteran Defenseman Brent Burns to One-Year Deal

The Colorado Avalanche Hockey Club has officially announced the signing of seasoned defenseman Brent Burns to a one-year contract for the upcoming 2025-26 NHL season. This strategic acquisition, revealed on July 3, 2025, seeks to bolster the Avalanche's defensive lineup and capitalize on Burns' extensive experience and skill set, particularly as he enters his 21st season in the league.

Burns, a native of Barrie, Ontario, enjoyed a productive season with the Carolina Hurricanes in 2024-25, amassing 29 points, including 6 goals and 23 assists, while averaging an impressive 20 minutes and 57 seconds of ice time across 82 regular-season games. Notably, he was instrumental during the playoffs, contributing five points (1 goal and 4 assists) in 15 games. His performance placed him second among Hurricanes defensemen in both assists and points, showcasing his continued relevance in a highly competitive league.

Historically, Burns is renowned for his durability, having participated in every game for 11 consecutive seasons, thus earning him the fourth-longest “Iron Man” streak in NHL history with 925 consecutive games played. Over his illustrious career, he has accumulated 910 points (261 goals and 649 assists) in 1,497 regular-season games, ranking eighth all-time among defensemen.

Throughout his career, Burns has achieved numerous accolades, including winning the prestigious James Norris Memorial Trophy in the 2016-17 season for being the league's top defenseman. That season, he recorded 76 points (29 goals and 47 assists) and led all defensemen in goals, points, and shots on goal. Additionally, he has been a finalist for the Norris Trophy on multiple occasions and has participated in six NHL All-Star Games, further solidifying his reputation as one of the premier defensemen in the league.

Burns' previous tenure with the San Jose Sharks, where he spent 11 seasons, is particularly noteworthy. He holds the Sharks' franchise records for goals and assists by a defenseman, with 594 points (172 goals and 422 assists) during his time with the team. His contributions were vital in leading the Sharks to the Stanley Cup Final for the first time in franchise history during the 2015-16 season, where he played a pivotal role in their playoff success.

Internationally, Burns represented Team Canada, winning gold at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey and the 2015 IIHF World Championship, further highlighting his elite status in the sport.

The Avalanche's signing of Burns signifies a commitment to enhancing their defensive capabilities as they prepare for the upcoming season. With an experienced player like Burns on board, the Avalanche aim to leverage his skill set and leadership both on and off the ice, as they seek to reclaim their position as contenders in the NHL.

As the 2025-26 season approaches, the Avalanche will look to build on their previous successes while integrating Burns into their system. The team’s management believes that his experience and proven track record will be invaluable assets in achieving their goals this season. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching how Burns adapts to his new team and the impact he will have on the Avalanche's performance.