Breaking News - Former top 3 pick finally signs an NHL contract

Alex Galchenyuk has spent the last 6 months trying to find an NHL contract, and today he finally achieved that goal. Today the Colorado Avalanche have officially signed free Agent forward Alex Galchenyuk to a one-year contract for the remainder of the 2022-23 season.

Galchenyuk was with the Avalanche on a professional tryout agreement during camp before a knee injury ultimately led to his release. Two weeks ago he signed an AHL deal with the Avs' AHL affiliate Colorado Eagles. In seven games with the Eagles, Galchenyuk has scored 3 goals and 7 points. He has impressed Avalanche management enough to reward him with a one year deal.

The 28-year-old, played in 60 games for the Arizona Coyotes last season, collecting 6 goals and 15 assists for 21 points.


The third-overall pick in 2012 was once a rising star in the league, scoring 30 goals during the 2015-16 season for the Montreal Canadiens. Things have gone steadily downhill since then, with the enigmatic forward bouncing around the league and failing to capitalize on great opportunities.

He has suited up for the Coyotes, Pittsburgh Penguins, Ottawa Senators, Minnesota Wild, and Toronto Maple Leafs.

You have to admire Galchenyuk's will to continue to battle to stay in the league. Many top picks before him, have given up playing in the NHL for opportunities in Europe's leagues or give up playing professional hockey for careers in other fields.