Jonathan Drouin reveals his plan for the next season

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Carl Vaillancourt
May 19, 2024 (7:10 PM)

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As a pending unrestricted free agent, Colorado Avalanche forward Jonathan Drouin will be free to choose his next team when the market opens.

He is likely to sign a much more lucrative contract than what he earned in 2023-2024.

Many analysts had thought he might continue his career in Europe, but after the season he just had, Drouin will certainly be back in the NHL next year.

The former Montreal Canadiens player agreed to a one-year, $825,000 contract last summer and accumulated 56 points in 79 games this season, including 19 goals.

He added three points in three playoff games and averaged a point per game for most of the season. He was truly excellent.

Contract expired: Jonathan Drouin announces his intentions

Now that Drouin's contract is over and the Avalanche's season has ended, many are wondering if he has played his last game there, especially since Colorado might struggle to afford his salary increase.

When asked about his future in Colorado, he responded to the media:

"Obviously, it was a good year for me. I took a step in the right direction regarding the level of play I want to have. However, I have to give credit to many people here, including the coaches and players. It's a great group filled with good players.

This defeat will hurt for a few days, but I would love to return with the Avalanche next year. I loved my time here, as did my whole family."

- Jonathan Drouin

Here is the full excerpt:

This will be an interesting story to follow in the coming weeks. Will the former Montreal Canadiens forward sign a discount contract to stay with Nathan Mackinnon?

Credit: GoNordiques.com - Avenir de Jo Drouin au Colorado: le Québécois sort de son mutisme

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