Martin Necas Reportedly Unhappy in Colorado, Fueling Intense Trade Speculation as Avalanche Confront Pivotal Offseason Decision Amid Contract Uncertainty, Cap Constraints, and Rising Interest from….

Martin Necas Reportedly Unhappy in Colorado, Fueling Intense Trade Speculation as Avalanche Confront Pivotal Offseason Decision Amid Contract Uncertainty, Cap Constraints, and Rising Interest from….

Speculation is swirling around forward Martin Necas and his future with the Colorado Avalanche, as new reports suggest the 25-year-old may not be content in Denver. According to NHL insider Nick Kypreos of Sportsnet, Necas “wasn’t overly thrilled” with his stint in Colorado, raising the possibility of a trade as the offseason approaches. With one year remaining on his current contract, valued at $6.5 million, and unrestricted free agency looming in 2026, the Avalanche face mounting pressure to make a pivotal decision.

Necas was acquired by Colorado in a major midseason trade that sent star winger Mikko Rantanen to the Dallas Stars. While the move was controversial, Necas performed well in his new environment, quickly building chemistry with Nathan MacKinnon and producing at nearly a point-per-game pace. Despite his on-ice success, recent reports of dissatisfaction suggest Necas may not see a long-term future with the team.

Complicating matters is Colorado’s tight salary cap situation. The team recently committed $22.5 million over three years to veteran forward Brock Nelson, a deal some analysts have called an overpayment given his modest impact since joining the roster. The extension also sparked speculation that the Avalanche may be preparing for life without Necas, especially if contract negotiations hit a wall this summer.

Necas is expected to command a significant raise on his next contract, potentially in the $9–10 million range following an 83-point breakout season. If he’s unwilling to negotiate an extension now, the Avalanche risk losing him for nothing after the 2025–26 campaign. That scenario would echo the team’s experience with Rantanen, who left amid stalled contract talks and financial constraints.

General Manager Chris MacFarland now finds himself at a crossroads. If there is no meaningful progress toward a new deal in the coming months, Colorado may be forced to explore trade options to protect its long-term asset management strategy. With several contenders potentially interested in a dynamic top-six forward, Necas could be a valuable trade chip.

Letting a productive player like Necas walk in free agency would be a significant setback for the Avalanche, especially after parting ways with a franchise cornerstone in Rantanen. To avoid a repeat, Colorado may need to act decisively — either by locking Necas in with a lucrative extension or moving him while his value is high.

The clock is ticking, and how the Avalanche handle the situation this offseason could have major implications for their championship aspirations.