Cumiskey was tendered a qualifying offer after the conclusion of last season, and was the last player to remain unsigned on the Avalanche roster.
The contract is a two way deal (708K/105K). The 24-year old played only 18 games with the club last season, suffering from recurring concussion symptoms. He scored 8 points (1g/7a) for the team, and has racked up 9 goals and 26 assists (35p) over parts of five seasons with the team.
Taking so long to sign a contract left some fans wondering if Cumiskey would even play this year. He is the antithesis of what the team added in big, tough defensemen like Jan Hejda and Shane O'Brien. Factor in the face that Kyle Quincey is returning from injury, and prospects like Stefan Elliott and Tyson Barrie are nearly ready to make the jump, and you have a crowded blue line for sure, with no solidified spot for Cumiskey.
Cumiskey will need to have a killer training camp to secure a spot on the roster. Being only 24, he still hasa few years to develop, but he will have to learn how to best make up for his small stature and inconsistent defense. If he could learn how to harness his speed and best use it for breaking out of his own end, he would increase his chances greatly.
But if guys like Wilson, O'Brien and Elliott have a good camp, Cumiskey may find himself on the outside looking in.
No comments:
Post a Comment