Gearing Up
As the Colorado Avalanche gear up for the Rookie Faceoff Tournament hosted by the Los Angeles Kings from Sept. 13-16, several young prospects are eager to make their mark. The Avs released the full roster on Wednesday.
With three games in the ten-game showcase held at the Toyota Performance Center, Avs hopefuls will compete against top prospects from Anaheim, San Jose (including Macklin Celebrini), and Seattle in a crucial step toward securing their future in the organization.
Here’s a rundown of who to watch:
Cal Ritchie
Center | Age 19 | 6’2” 185 lbs. | Draft: 1st round (27) in 2023
Cal Ritchie is the belle of the ball in his Rookie Faceoff debut. After being selected 27th overall by the Colorado Avalanche in the 2023 NHL Draft, his journey has been marked by resilience, especially after overcoming a shoulder injury that impacted his draft stock.
Ritchie's standout qualities include his impressive hockey IQ, playmaking ability, and polished two-way game, making him a formidable center both offensively and defensively.
Ritchie had a stellar 2023-24 season in his return from injury, scoring 80 points in 50 games and earning a spot on the OHL Second All-Star Team. His ability to control possession and command the ice was on full display at Development Camp in July, where he demonstrated his playmaking ability and looked a step ahead of his peers in the three-on-three scrimmage.
As you watch Ritchie in the tournament, look for his strong hockey instincts, as well as his improving physical strength and skating—areas he’s been focusing on in the offseason.
“I think strength is a big thing. Improving all aspects of my game, like my skating and my shot and everything, that’s a big focus so far. I’ve put on some good muscle,” Ritchie said.
To date, Ritchie reports gaining 12 pounds of muscle this summer. “I’m feeling good and just need to continue doing that.”
His ability to read the game and make smart plays will be critical as he works toward earning a spot on Colorado’s NHL roster. Keep an eye on how he handles high-pressure moments and his effectiveness in both ends of the ice, as this tournament will be a crucial step in his journey to the NHL.
“I’m going to rookie camp and then to main camp and then try my best to earn a spot. Obviously, I know it’s going to be a tough challenge, but I’m confident in myself, and I’m looking forward to it,” he said.
Of the prospects in the tournament, Ritchie is most realistically eyeing an NHL role next season.
Oskar Olausson
Left/Right Wing | Age 21 | 6’1” 180 lbs. | Draft: 1st round (28) in 2021
Things are challenging for 21-year-old Oskar Olausson. Now another year removed from his first-round selection, his draft pedigree looms as a weight-bearing reminder. He lost his second pro year after a season-ending shoulder injury sidelined him for the 2023-24 season. Even as recently as Development Camp in July, he was in a red no-contact jersey, ramping up his return to play.
It’s encouraging, and in alignment with his timeline, that he’ll be a full participant in September’s Rookie Faceoff.
Olausson has just one full pro season under his belt. Under Greg Cronin’s tutelage, he was encouraged to become a more fierce hunter in the offensive zone—chasing and recovering pucks.
He worked hard to build that layer into his game, and last season would have been a true test of it, but his chance was cut short due to his shoulder injury in February. In the 39 games before his injury, Olausson improved his points pace from 0.3 points per game to 0.5. He was trending in the right direction, so he has a lot to prove in this tournament.
He has good offensive instincts. His coveted shot has been NHL caliber for some time, but alone, it’s one-dimensional. That’s why it was so important for Olausson to challenge himself to embrace more of a power forward mold. Throughout his junior career, he led with his skill and his shot. To carve out an NHL role now, he has to be multifaceted. He has to be consistent and engaged, akin to the Avs’ number one worker bee: Artturi Lehkonen.
Ivan Ivan
C | Age 22 | 6’0” 190 lbs. | Signed as UFA, March 5, 2024
There are several reasons to key in on Ivan Ivan’s Rookie Faceoff performance. He put himself on Jared Bednar’s radar after a good tournament and camp last year. The 22-year-old centerman went from an undrafted player out of juniors to an AHL deal. Ivan’s growth over the past season with the Colorado Eagles was so noticeable that it earned him an NHL contract.
With 12 goals and 19 assists in 67 AHL games, he ranked 34th among rookies in scoring, showing steady offensive production. His confidence has grown considerably, fueled by the support of his coaches, his NHL contract, and the motivation to skate alongside elite players like Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen one day. Ivan’s strong skating, puck-handling skills, and competitive edge will help him stand out in the tournament.
His speed and tenacity, particularly in battles and puck retrievals, have earned him a spot on the Eagles’ top power play unit—a testament to his quickness and offensive awareness. His ability to create plays with speed, along with his improved defensive game, highlights his all-around growth. Ivan’s development as a faceoff specialist and his stronger physical play also set him apart as a young center capable of excelling in tight areas.
Expect to see Ivan’s hunger and work ethic on full display as he continues to prove his worth. His ability to compete against men in the AHL has already impressed the organization, and the Rookie Faceoff will offer a glimpse of his potential in his climb up the depth chart.
Max Curran
C | Age 18 | 6’3” 179 lbs. | Draft: 5th round (161) in 2024
There’s a new kid on the block. When it comes to Maxmilian Curran, there’s plenty to be excited about. After being selected by the Colorado Avalanche in the fifth round of the 2024 NHL Draft, he’s a young center brimming with potential, and his commitment to an NHL path stands out. Curran, a Czech-born skater, chose the WHL route to acclimate to North American ice early.
Curran’s playmaking skills set him apart—he's a crafty passer who can create opportunities for his teammates with his vision and hockey IQ. In his recent WHL season with the Tri-City Americans, his 27 assists in 40 games demonstrate his ability to make the right play at the right time, even if he isn't the flashiest player on the ice. It’s important to note that he missed the back half of the 2024 season due to injury, so this tournament is another important viewing for him.
At 6'3", Curran already has the size to be a physical presence, and while his game leans more toward finesse, his potential for growth in the physical aspect of play is an area to watch. His two-way game is also a key asset—he’s responsible defensively, willing to backcheck, and can be relied on in tough matchups.
Although his skating and shooting are areas that still need improvement, Curran’s ability to read the ice and set up teammates makes him a fascinating project. The Rookie Faceoff is the perfect stage for him to showcase his potential and continue working on the physicality and offensive aspects that could elevate his game to the next level. Keep an eye out for his playmaking magic and how he handles himself against top young talent.
Matt Stienburg
C | Age 23 | 6’1” 182 lbs. | Draft: 3rd round (63) in 2019
Matt Stienburg’s ascent up the depth chart has been made more challenging with the influx of college free agents (Polin, Chase Bradley, Ondrej Pavel), the return of veteran players, and the continued presence of prospects with an inside track, like Olausson and Foudy.
He recently completed his first full pro season, so he should have a leg up on players entering the tournament for the first time. At last summer's tournament, Stienburg showcased the peskiness that attracted the Avs to him in the first place.
A former third-round pick (63rd overall), Stienburg continues to develop into a two-way forward. Stienburg, who had 13 points in 53 games during his first full AHL season with the Colorado Eagles, brings a mix of physicality and defensive responsibility to the ice.
One of the key aspects to watch for is how he leverages his long frame, particularly in puck battles and on the forecheck, a trait that he’s consistently honed throughout his time with Cornell and the Eagles.
Stienburg’s play without the puck will be crucial, as he’s expected to take on defensive responsibilities while also chipping in offensively when given the opportunity. His ability to protect the puck and make smart, efficient plays will make him a standout in tight situations.
With a full season of AHL experience under his belt, this tournament offers Stienburg the chance to showcase his growth and further solidify his case as a dependable forward in the Avalanche system. With so much competition ahead of him, it’s important for him to find ways to stand out. Being reliable, a leader, and a willingness to get his hands dirty will be necessities.
Jason Polin
RW | Age 25 | 6’0” 198 lbs. | Signed as college FA, March 29, 2023
A former Western Michigan captain, Jason Polin came from a solid program with a strong physical identity. The Colorado Avalanche scooped him up as a college free agent and brought the 6’0” right-shot winger into the fold. At 25 years old, he’s a lock for a leadership role in the Rookie Faceoff.
Polin quickly impressed at the last rookie tournament, but his strong performance was cut short after a heavy-hitting showing kept him out of the final game due to injury. Polin made his NHL debut in January and logged 51:58 minutes in seven games with the Avs. Despite his limited time, he cracked the top three for hits per 60 and continued to lean into the physical side of his game that impressed last summer.
Polin’s path to an NHL job has been peppered with worthy competitors: players like Joel Kiviranta and Chris Wagner had NHL experience on their side and won out in late-season opportunities. Polin’s standout strength has been his ability to make noise every shift. It’s crucial for Polin to string together another impressive tournament to make a stronger case for himself going into camp.
The Avs’ forward group loaded up on depth with players like Jere Innala, Parker Kelly, and Matthew Phillips all vying for a job. Young players like Oskar Olausson, Jean-Luc Foudy, and Cal Ritchie will also be competing for a spot. Joel Kiviranta, Chris Wagner, TJ Tynan, and Jayson Megna are returning to the organization, further filling up the depth chart.
Polin’s AHL production—ten points in 42 games—didn’t jump off the page, but he became a well-rounded contributor on both special teams for the Eagles. Once a dominant goal-scorer in college, if Polin can find a way to bring his scoring touch to the pro level alongside his punishing play, he’ll present a compelling case.
Sean Behrens
LHD | Age 21 | 5’10” 180 lbs. | Draft: 2nd round (61) in 2021
Defenseman Sean Behrens finished his junior year at the University of Denver and left the program with two national titles to his name. He won Denver’s Keith Magnuson Best Defensive Player Award after taking huge defensive strides and becoming a shutdown penalty killer. He’s a highly skilled two-way player selected by the Avs in the second round of the 2021 NHL Draft.
Behrens is known for his exceptional hockey IQ, great stick work, and ability to shut down plays despite his smaller frame. Seriously, don’t underestimate his physical impact due to his size. His standout 2023-24 season at the University of Denver, where he posted 31 points and blocked 70 shots, highlights his defensive prowess and offensive capabilities.
Behrens is a poised and mature player who can contribute at both ends of the ice. Look for his ability to make smart decisions under pressure, lead transitions with quick passing, and contribute offensively from the blue line. His strong defensive positioning and shot-blocking skills will be key factors to watch as he continues to develop into a well-rounded NHL prospect.
Ondrej Pavel
C | Age 24 | 6’2” 210 lbs. | Signed as college FA, March 30, 2023
Signed as a college free agent by the Colorado Avalanche, Ondrej Pavel is a hard-working, defensive-minded center who has already made an impression at both the AHL and NHL levels. He missed the tournament last summer due to an injury, but his commitment to working hard in the offseason made an impression on Bednar despite his absence.
Pavel stayed in Denver, working extra hard again this summer, and participated in DU’s August Pro Camp with Ritchie, Foudy, Behrens, Devon Toews, Sam Girard, and Logan O’Connor. Known for his competitiveness and commitment to team play, Pavel shines as a PK center.
Pavel brings a physical presence, standing 6’2” and using his body effectively in battles, which makes him an asset in defensive matchups. His leadership and work ethic were honed during his college career at Minnesota State, where he was named the team's hardest worker, which tracks with everything we’ve seen in Colorado so far.
Fans can expect to see Pavel's relentless drive and knack for winning puck battles. Keep an eye on how he manages tough matchups and his ability to disrupt opponents during the tournament. The biggest question mark for Pavel remains his ability to match Colorado’s high-intensity pace. His engagement has never been an issue, but his mobility in and out of battles can hold him back.
Honorable Mentions:
- Nikita Prishchepov C | Age 20 | 6’1” 194 lbs. | Draft: 7th round (217) in 2024some text
- Another shiny new prospect, Prishchepov was a seventh round selection in the 2024 Draft this summer. He appeared in Development Camp and sparked intrigue after he stood out in Group 1’s sessions alongside Cal Ritchie.
- Chase Bradley LW | Age 22 | 5’11” 180 lbs. | Signed as FA, July 2, 2024some text
- Bradley is a 22-year old forward signed to an NHL deal following his NCAA career. He was a former Detroit Red Wings pick whose rights expired this summer - the Avs signed him as soon as he hit free agency. Director of Player Development, Brian Willsie, said that he expects Bradley to add grit to the Eagles’ lineup next year.
- Sage Weinstein LHD | Age 19 | 6’1” 185 lbs. | Signed as FA, Oct. 6, 2023some text
- The 19-year-old defenseman, recently signed by the Avs, is an emerging talent with strong two-way play who showed well at the tournament last year. He tallied 25 points last season in the WHL and scored the game-winner in the 2023 Rookie Faceoff last summer. Expect smart defense and offensive flashes.
The games are typically available to watch live on YouTube and the schedule is as follows:
Friday, Sept. 13
Game 1 - San Jose vs. Utah, 1:00 p.m. PT, (NHL Rink 1)
Game 2 - Colorado vs. Anaheim, 3:30 p.m. PT, (NHL Rink 2)
Game 3 - Vegas vs. Los Angeles, 7:00 p.m. PT, (NHL Rink 1)
Saturday, Sept. 14
Game 1 - Seattle vs. Colorado, 3:00 p.m. PT, (NHL Rink 1)
Game 2 - Utah vs. Los Angeles, 7:00 p.m. PT, (NHL Rink 1)
Sunday, Sept. 15
Game 1 - Vegas vs. Seattle, 1:00 p.m. PT, (NHL Rink 1)
Game 2 - Anaheim vs. San Jose, 4:30 p.m. PT, (NHL Rink 1)
Monday, Sept. 16
Game 1 - Colorado vs. San Jose, 11:30 a.m. PT, (NHL Rink 1)
Game 2 - Utah vs. Vegas, 12:30 p.m. PT, (NHL Rink 2)
Game 3 - Anaheim vs. Los Angeles, 3:30 p.m. PT, (NHL Rink 1)
