Colorado forward TJ Hughes (signed as a free agent this past spring) went from undrafted player to the University of Michigan’s top center, and now is set to be featured on the Avs’ first power-play unit alongside Nathan McKinnon and Cale Makar, as a rookie no less. Head Coach Jared Bednar announced that Hughes has secured an opening night roster spot with Colorado, months after leading Michigan to a Frozen Four appearance and being named a Hobey Baker Award finalist as the NCAA’s best college hockey player.
Although Hughes’ regular 5-on-5 role currently stands in a state of flux, he proved his worth in the pre-season as having the flexibility to be inserted up and down the lineup, and at both the center and wing positions. Hughes skated with second-line center Brock Nelson, and also acted as a third-line fill-in for injured winger Logan O’Connor in the pre-season. After registering four points (3G 1A) in the pre-season, the coaching staff is convinced he can produce offense regardless of where he plays.
On a personal note, at first I was somewhat surprised when Hughes signed with the Avs, as he has been a lifelong supporter of Montreal hockey. At second glance, his decision to go with Colorado makes perfect sense. The Habs are loaded with young talent up front, and the Avs have one of the league’s thinnest prospect pools, having tons of opportunity for a young player to make his mark quickly.
