Former Dallas Stars forward lands with a division rival
Photo credit: Sportsnet
After a career-high in goals, former Dallas Stars forward Joel Kiviranta will return to the Colorado Avalanche, but his shooting percentage hints at possible regression
Dallas Stars fans will remember Joel Kiviranta for his time in Victory Green, but he's staying put with a division rival.
The Colorado Avalanche have re-signed the Finnish winger to a one-year deal after a strong 2024-25 campaign.
Kiviranta appeared in 79 regular-season games and all seven playoff contests against the Stars in the First Round.
He posted a career-best 16 goals, but only managed seven assists, finishing with 23 points.
His 19 percent shooting percentage was unusually high for his career, which has some wondering if his production will dip next season.
«Any time you're finishing at nearly 20 percent, you're probably going to come back to earth,» one NHL analyst said. «But Kiviranta plays a style that creates high-quality looks, so he'll still contribute.»
From undrafted signing in Dallas to key depth piece for the Colorado Avalanche
Kiviranta's NHL journey began when Dallas signed him as an undrafted free agent, adding to the team's long history of Finnish talent.
Over his four seasons in Texas, he became known for his energy, versatility, and memorable playoff moments.
In 2023, he signed with Colorado, where he has now played 135 games.
I think it's always strange to see a former fan favorite stick with a rival, but Kiviranta has found a stable role in Denver.
For the Avalanche, keeping him means preserving a hard-working depth forward who fits their aggressive transition game.
For the Stars, it means facing a familiar face who has already proven he can perform under playoff pressure.
And given how tight the Central Division race could be, every matchup will matter.
| POLL | ||
AOUT 8 | 31 ANSWERS Former Dallas Stars forward lands with a division rival Do you think Joel Kiviranta will match or exceed his 16-goal total next season with the Avalanche? | ||
| Yes | 13 | 41.9 % |
| No | 18 | 58.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
TRENDING NOW
