Heading into the final year of his current deal, Avalanche star defenseman Devon Toews wants to spend the rest of his career in Colorado. The 29-year-old is set to become an unrestricted free agent next July.

Toews confirmed Wednesday at Avalanche media day that the two sides have had discussions about a contract extension. While nothing is imminent, Toews would like a deal to get done before the season begins.

“I’d rather not drag on into the season,” he said. “My intent is to stay here the rest of my career. So if we’re able to get that done, that’d be awesome.”

 

Entering his fourth season with the Avs, Toews has solidified his status as one of the NHL’s elite defensemen. He’s become a staple of Colorado’s top pair alongside superstar Cale Makar. Through 199 regular season games, Toews has 29 goals, 138 points and is a whopping plus-120. He also has 30 points in 37 playoff appearances.

Toews makes $4.1 million per season on his current deal — a contract he signed upon being traded to Colorado in 2020. Given the market value for a top-pair defenseman, he could more than double that number on his next deal. Although I find it hard to believe the Avs will be able to keep him around in the $8 million range. It’ll likely take a longer term to bring his AAV down.