Avalanche Re-sign Joel Kiviranta for 2025-26

The Colorado Avalanche have re-signed forward Joel Kiviranta to a one-year contract for the 2025-26 NHL season, with financial terms undisclosed. Kiviranta, 29, achieved career highs last season with 16 goals, 7 assists, and 23 points in 79 games, including his first regular-season hat trick and several multi-goal games. Despite a strong regular season, he ended the year on a 15-game pointless streak, including going scoreless in seven playoff appearances. Avalanche General Manager Chris MacFarland praised Kiviranta's work ethic and responsibility, underscoring his value to the team. Undrafted, Kiviranta began his NHL career with the Dallas Stars and has accumulated 60 points in 298 NHL games, along with significant playoff experience, including a Stanley Cup Final appearance. He is expected to fill a bottom-six role for Colorado next season.