Nathan MacKinnon‘s Colorado Avalanche made headlines earlier this offseason by offloading veteran center Charlie Coyle in a trade that, at first glance, seemed routine. But behind the scenes, the transaction carried an unexpected twist — one that may have long-term implications for both franchises involved.
Coyle had been acquired late last season as a depth piece for Colorado’s playoff run. While serviceable, his role remained limited, and the team appeared ready to pivot heading into the 2024–25 campaign. His exit, however, wasn’t a solo decision, but part of a broader roster-clearing strategy.
“Colorado made it clear that if you were going to get Coyle, you were going to have to take Miles Wood too; Wood needed a change of scenery,” revealed insider Elliotte Friedman on the 32 Thoughts podcast.
Two departures, one strategic trade
The trade materialized on June 27, sending Charlie Coyle and Miles Wood to the Columbus Blue Jackets. In exchange, the Avalanche received highly regarded prospect Gavin Brindley, a third-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, and a conditional second-round pick in 2027. The deal also allowed Colorado to clear nearly $8 million in cap space, a key priority ahead of free agency.
Coyle, 33, tallied 13 points in 19 regular-season games and added one goal in seven playoff appearances. Wood, meanwhile, played just 37 games last season and posted 8 points, falling out of favor in the Avalanche’s bottom-six. His $2.5 million AAV contract still runs for four more years, which likely played into the team’s urgency to move him.
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Fresh start in Columbus
The Blue Jackets saw value in both additions. According to NHL.com, General manager Don Waddell praised their experience and energy, especially highlighting their potential to contribute in different phases of the game. “Charlie is an experienced, two-way player… Miles is one of the fastest skaters in the NHL who provides great energy and physicality.”
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Friedman’s note about Wood “needing a change of scenery” fits into Columbus’s strategy of acquiring players with upside in need of a reset. Both Coyle and Wood now have the opportunity to reestablish themselves in a young, evolving roster — while the Avalanche, led by Nathan MacKinnon, gain the flexibility to pursue new high-impact targets.
