Choosing to leave the Calgary Flames as an unrestricted free agent, defenseman Oliver Kylington has signed a one-year contract with the Colorado Avalanche. Elliotte Friedman reports the deal is valued at $1.05 million.
The 27-year-old previously played for the Flames, appearing in 33 games during the 2023-24 season after missing the entire 2022-23 campaign for personal reasons. Upon his return, he recorded eight points, including three goals and five assists. Kylington’s journey back to the NHL has been difficult, and his challenges during this period likely contributed to the inability to reach an agreement with the Flames.
The Flames expressed interest in re-signing him but were cautious about contract terms, creating a disconnect. According to the Flames Talk Podcast, Kylington sought a long-term deal, but the Flames were not willing to make that commitment. This likely contributed to his decision to sign a short-term “prove it” deal with the Avalanche.
Related: Are Calgary Flames Fans in for Sad Ending to Oliver Kylington Saga?
NHL Free agency began on July 1, but Kylington remained unsigned for over a month, leaving insiders uncertain about his situation with Flames GM Craig Conroy. His limited playtime over the past two seasons complicated teams’ evaluations of his worth. Rumors of a four-year deal with another team were never confirmed and this deal with Colorado seems to suggest few teams were willing to make a sizeable investment in the blueliner.
Now, with the Avalanche, Kylington has the chance to re-establish himself and showcase his skills. He will face competition for a spot in a solid blue line that includes Cale Makar, Devon Toews, Sam Girard, and Josh Manson, alongside other left-shooting defensemen like Erik Brannstrom, Calvin de Haan, and Jacob MacDonald.
