It looks like instead of making any trades to move up into the first round of the draft, the Avs used the night to negotiate a new deal for center Matt Duchene.

The Avalanche have announced Duchene has signed a two year, $7 million contract that will average out to $3.5 million per year.

Duchene was thought to be in the $4.5 million with a 4,5 year deal but instead he took a $300 thousand raise and will still be a restricted free agent once this contract is up. Great deal for Duchene, the Avs and Greg Sherman.

Now it will be interesting to see what Ryan O'Reilly signs for.

Draft day

With the second pick, 41st overall, the Avs got a 3/4 grinding center in Mitchell Heard. According to our own Brian Huddle a good, hard-working player who will do anything to win.

In the third round, 72nd overall, the Avs left select left wing Troy Bourke, who at 5'10 156 will need to fill out before he cracks the NHL roster.

Here is a good article on Burke: http://thehockeywriters.com/troy-bourke-the-next-ones-nhl-2012-draft-prospect-profile/

In round 5 with the 132nd selection, the Avs drafted center Michael Clarke. His head coach Bob Boughner compares him to Adam Henrique. Just ask Todd Cordell.

Center Joseph Blandisi has been selected in round six, pick 162 overall. Interesting that most of the picks have been pure center picks.

Last pick was Colin Smith, another smaller skilled center. The Avs had a theme this draft.

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