NHL News: Avalanche star Nathan MacKinnon loses key teammate to Islanders

The recently concluded NHL season is now in the rearview, with the Florida Panthers ultimately taking home the championship. Meanwhile, the Colorado Avalanche—one of the league’s top contenders—fell short of the title. To make matters worse, the latest news confirms that one of Nathan MacKinnon’s key teammates has reached a deal to join the New York Islanders.

Jonathan Drouin, one of the most important pieces in Jared Bednar’s system, is officially changing divisions and will join the Islanders starting next season.

The report was confirmed by The New York Post, who shared the news via their official account on X (formerly Twitter). This notable move will undoubtedly have an impact on what lies ahead for MacKinnon and the Avalanche.

“Islanders sign winger Jonathan Drouin for $8 million in NHL free agency,” it was reported via @nypost.

How much are the Avalanche losing with Drouin’s departure?

The Avalanche lose a key offensive playmaker with Drouin’s move to the Islanders. Jared Bednar’s system now lacks his unique creativity and vision, particularly on the power play, which helped unlock defenses and provided a different dimension to the top-six forward group.

Drouin’s departure also impacts Colorado’s forward depth and versatility. He offered flexibility, playing both wings and providing secondary scoring. Losing this adaptable offensive option means others must step up to fill the void in the lineup and strategy.

Ultimately, Colorado loses a player who had found renewed offensive spark within their system. Replacing that specific high-end production, even if intermittent, will be a challenge for the Avalanche as they aim to maintain their scoring prowess.

Another player leaves the Avalanche

Jonathan Drouin’s departure from the Avalanche ahead of next season isn’t the only loss hitting the team. Another one of Nathan MacKinnon’s key teammates, Ryan Lindgren, is also changing divisions — the standout defenseman has agreed to join the Seattle Kraken.