Brent Burns agreed to a one-year deal with the Colorado Avalanche in what could be his last chance to win the Stanley Cup, after a career in which he has consistently showcased his talent. Alongside Nathan MacKinnon, he will have the opportunity to win his first NHL trophy.
Burns’ contract with Colorado is worth $1 million, with up to $3 million in incentives. His role will be to provide leadership, energy, and experience to a roster built to contend again, led by star MacKinnon and supported by defenseman Cale Makar.
In this context, taking on a new challenge at age 40 raises many questions in advance. Burns, fully aware that he is facing a unique opportunity in his career, broke his silence to speak about his future and shared how he feels about joining the Avs after his time with the Carolina Hurricanes.
Burns’ admission upon arriving in Colorado
“I still love it. I think that’s so important, the passion part of it. The biggest one for me is there’s still something to chase. So, I’m still super motivated for that and there’s one big goal still,” he told NHL.com when talking about his move to the Avs.
Burns’ goal in Colorado
Burns still has unfinished business with the Stanley Cup, a trophy he came close to winning during the 2015-16 season with the San Jose Sharks but has never lifted in his long career. Colorado, the 2022 league champion, could offer him a real chance to pursue that dream. “That’s a big part for me. That’s something I really want to do. It’s definitely not easy,” Burns said.
Burns’ NHL experience
Burns’ long career raises the question of just how many games he has played as a pro so far. The former Hurricanes player has appeared in 1,497 games, recording 910 points from 261 goals and 649 assists. He also has an ironman streak of 925 consecutive games (the fourth longest in NHL history).