Defensive Wall: Blueliner Registers Impressive 59 Blocked Shots in Just 48 Games During Gritty 2024–25 Season – A Quiet Hero Anchoring the Back End with Relentless Commitment
Veteran defenseman Josh Manson quietly hit a major career milestone during the 2024-25 NHL season, suiting up for his 600th NHL game while continuing to be a reliable, physical force on the Colorado Avalanche blue line. The milestone game came on November 25th against the Tampa Bay Lightning, marking a significant moment in Manson’s fourth season with the Avalanche.
Although the rugged blueliner was limited to just 48 games due to injuries this past season, Manson made every appearance count. He tallied 59 blocked shots and 105 hits, demonstrating his hallmark physicality and defensive awareness. He also contributed 15 points (1 goal and 14 assists) and averaged 18:02 of ice time per game, proving that when healthy, he remains a crucial part of Colorado’s defensive corps.
Manson’s 2024-25 campaign was a continuation of his dependable style of play, especially in the defensive zone. He became the first Avalanche player since Nikita Zadorov (in 2016-17 and 2017-18) to record consecutive seasons of at least 40 games played, while averaging a minimum of 2.00 hits and 1.00 blocked shots per game. That statistical threshold highlights just how consistent and committed Manson has been to playing a bruising, sacrifice-first brand of hockey.
Beyond the numbers, Manson had standout moments throughout the season. He scored his only goal of the campaign in a thrilling 5-4 victory over the Ottawa Senators. Offensively, he proved valuable as a secondary playmaker, registering three multi-assist games—against the Winnipeg Jets on December 31st, the Minnesota Wild on January 9th, and the Dallas Stars on January 18th. These performances showcased Manson’s ability to contribute offensively when the opportunity arises.
Defensively, Manson continued to shine. He had 13 games with at least two blocked shots, and in 18 different contests, he laid down three or more hits, reinforcing his reputation as a gritty, stay-at-home defender who excels in the trenches. His physical presence was particularly important in shorthanded situations and late-game defensive stands.
As Manson enters the final year of his current contract heading into the 2025-26 season, his leadership and physicality remain vital to Colorado’s aspirations. With 626 career games now under his belt, he’s just 74 games away from the 700-game milestone and 27 shy of 200 appearances with the Avalanche. Whether he stays beyond this final contract year or moves on, his contributions to the Avalanche—both statistically and intangibly—have left a lasting mark.
The Avalanche will count on Manson’s veteran presence as they push for another deep playoff run, and fans can expect him to continue doing what he does best: blocking shots, throwing hits, and setting the tone on the back end.
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