The Colorado Avalanche have bolstered their roster by signing two NCAA free agents, goaltender Isak Posch and left-shot winger Cooper Gay, each to two-year, entry-level contracts set to commence in the 2025-26 season.
Isak Posch, a 23-year-old netminder from Umeå, Sweden, has shown significant development during his collegiate career at St. Cloud State University. After a freshman season where he recorded a 5-6-2 record with a .901 save percentage over 14 games, Posch emerged as the team’s primary goaltender in his sophomore year. He posted a 12-10-0 record with a .923 save percentage, ranking 11th nationally among goaltenders with at least 20 games played. Prior to his time at St. Cloud State, Posch gained experience in North American hockey with the USHL’s Sioux Falls Stampede and the NAHL’s Minnesota Magicians and St. Cloud Norsemen, demonstrating resilience and adaptability throughout his journey.
Cooper Gay, a 23-year-old forward from Edina, Minnesota, has also exhibited remarkable growth during his tenure at the University of St. Thomas. In the 2024-25 season, serving as an assistant captain, Gay achieved career highs with 19 goals and 11 assists for a total of 30 points in 35 games. He ranked second on the team in goals and led with seven power-play tallies. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 210 pounds, Gay’s imposing physical presence and offensive capabilities make him a promising addition to the Avalanche’s forward depth.
Both players are expected to join the Avalanche’s minor league affiliates for the upcoming season, providing them with opportunities to further develop their skills and adapt to professional play. These signings reflect Colorado’s ongoing strategy to identify and cultivate talent through the collegiate free agent market, aiming to enhance organizational depth and maintain competitiveness in the NHL.
As the Avalanche continue their current season, fans can look forward to upcoming games, including matchups against the Los Angeles Kings on March 27 and the St. Louis Blues on March 29.
