A contract, a prediction, and a season that made both look smart
The Colorado Avalanche made a bold statement when they handed Sam Malinski a four-year contract in January, with an average annual value of $4.75 million. This wasn't just a financial decision — it was a strong endorsement of Malinski's promise and potential. The timing was strategic. The move followed The Hockey News' assessment that Malinski was one of the most underrated players in the Avalanche system. That recognition was quickly backed by action. Malinski delivered one of the best seasons of his young NHL career. The response he gave to the team's faith in him was a season that would not only raise eyebrows but also validate every decision made by the Avalanche organization.
The 28-year-old defenseman took part in all 82 regular-season games, tallying 40 points — eight goals and 32 assists — while averaging under 18 minutes of ice time per game. This achievement was impressive in its own right, but the story behind the numbers was even more compelling. Malinski's production was earned in a role that typically doesn't demand high offensive output. He was often deployed as a third-pair defenseman, a position that traditionally prioritizes reliability and efficiency over creativity and scoring. Yet, his output was so consistent and valuable that it would have ranked among the best in the league if he had been in a first-pairing role.
Third-pair production that outpaces first-pair averages
Malinski’s role as a third-pair defenseman meant that he wasn't expected to carry a heavy offensive load. But despite that, he outperformed the expectations of the role. For example, Cale Makar, a first-pair defenseman, averaged over 25 minutes per game and earned 50 points on the year. Devon Toews, who had a similar third-pairing role, averaged 22 minutes and notched 30 points. Malinski managed to exceed Toews' total while playing fewer minutes and did so in a less prominent role. That kind of performance is rare and speaks to Malinski's ability to make an impact without being in the spotlight.
What makes this achievement even more remarkable is how Malinski managed to do it without significant power-play time or top-minute usage. Typically, defensemen who produce at a high level do so with the benefit of extra ice time and more strategic opportunities. Malinski, however, did it with a steady, intelligent approach and a growing confidence in high-pressure moments. His ability to consistently contribute in key situations without the spotlight being on him is a testament to his adaptability and work ethic.
From 15 to 40, and the lessons in between
Malinski's jump from 15 points in 76 games during the 2023-24 season to 40 points in 82 games this season was staggering. It was more than just a doubling of his production — it was nearly a tripling. This massive leap wasn't accidental. It was the result of a focused approach to managing his body and his preparation. In October, Malinski spoke about the importance of understanding how to handle the physical and mental demands of a full NHL season. He attributed much of his progress to watching teammates and learning from their routines, particularly those of Brent Burns, who holds the second-longest ironman streak in NHL history.
Malinski's insights into body management were the product of his naturally detail-oriented mindset. His rise in the 2024-25 season was not by chance — it was the result of smarter choices, better timing, and a consistent approach that turned potential into performance. He understood the importance of preparation, not just in terms of skill but also in terms of physical conditioning and recovery. This mindset is what helped him achieve such a significant leap in production.
Malinski now has the experience of a full playoff run, even though it was short — Colorado was swept by the Vegas Golden Knights in the first round. The physical and mental challenges of the postseason are significant, and having gone through that experience will only help Malinski grow as a player. He's learned firsthand what it takes to perform when the stakes are high. With that knowledge, combined with the habits he's already adopted for recovery and preparation, he's well-positioned to continue developing and achieving more in the future.
There is one area where Malinski can still improve, and that is in adding strength. Like many athletes, he faced the physical toll of a long season, especially during a demanding playoff run. The ability to balance strength with agility and explosiveness will be key as he moves forward. The next step for Malinski will be finding that balance, something that requires careful planning and execution.
The foundation is clearly there. Malinski’s intelligent approach, attention to detail, and ability to learn from the best have all set him up for continued success. With a deeper understanding of what it takes to perform at a high level and the habits to support that performance, Malinski is on the right track. The potential for even greater contributions from him in the future is very real. And with the guidance of experienced teammates and the support of the Avalanche organization, there's every reason to believe that his best is still yet to come.