Gavin Brindley makes most of fresh start with Avalanche, wins spot in opening-night lineup

Colorado Avalanche’s Gavin Brindley Earns Spot on Opening Night Roster

LOS ANGELES — The Colorado Avalanche kicked off their season with an easy victory, a perfect birthday present for rising star Gavin Brindley. Brindley celebrated his 21st birthday on Sunday, found out he was on the Avalanche’s opening-night roster on Monday, and was in the lineup Tuesday against the Los Angeles Kings.

“It’s just surreal,” Brindley said. “It’s exciting. It’s fun. This is the best job in the world. I’m very thankful and pretty ecstatic.”

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Brindley joined the Avalanche organization in late June when Colorado traded Charlie Coyle and Miles Wood to the Columbus Blue Jackets in a move to open up salary cap flexibility. A second-round pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, Brindley had an outstanding two-year collegiate career at the University of Michigan. However, his first professional season with the Blue Jackets’ AHL affiliate was somewhat disappointing.

Despite that, the Avalanche remained high on Brindley during his draft year and were excited to add him through the trade. However, the organization did not necessarily expect him to immediately secure a spot on the NHL roster.

“He played great. He was highly competitive,” Avs head coach Jared Bednar said. “He’s got a great motor. He’s relentless on pucks. And I think he has a skillset that he’s shown in flashes in games—that he can make plays under pressure, and the moment’s not too big for him. He doesn’t look intimidated at all. I mean, he went and made most of his opportunities through camp and through exhibitions. So he’s earned the right to be in the lineup.”

A Strong Collegiate Background

Brindley was the Big Ten Player of the Year as a sophomore at Michigan, playing alongside top prospects Frank Nazar and Rutger McGroarty. This followed a strong freshman season on a roster that included notable players such as Adam Fantilli and Luke Hughes.

Though Brindley may be considered diminutive in stature, he brings plenty of experience playing with some of the best talent at his level—often stepping up in the biggest moments.

“He’s just a student of the game, a hockey nerd,” said Michigan coach Brandon Naurato. “I think he’s a natural leader. He’s a special player and a special person. His energy is contagious. He brings guys with him. When he walks into a room, it’s all positive energy and vibes.”

Fresh Start with the Avalanche

Brindley’s first professional season started with an injury and a slow offensive pace. He finished with six goals and 17 points in 52 games, playing against older competition. The Avalanche, however, have given him a fresh start—and he’s taken full advantage of it.

In the preseason, Brindley scored three goals and added an assist in four games. In the season opener at the Magness Arena, he played on a line with Avalanche captain Gabe Landeskog, earning praise for his strong performance and continuing to impress.

Looking ahead, Brindley will have another opportunity to celebrate his birthday on the ice at Crypto.com Arena as the Avalanche continue their push this season.

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https://www.denverpost.com/2025/10/07/gavin-brindley-avalanche-debut-birthday/