Avalanche Sign Ryan O'Byrne to Two-Year Extension

The Colorado Avalanche announced on Thursday that they have re-signed defenseman Ryan O'Byrne to a two-year contract worth $3.6 million. The deal will pay him $1.8 million per season. He would have been a restricted free agent on July 1. O'Byrne was acquired by the Avalanche last November from the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for prospect Michael Bournival. In 64 games last season with the Canadiens and Avalanche, he had 10 assists and 71 penalty minutes. Not a bad depth signing for Colorado, as O'Byrne will bring lots of grit, toughness, and size to their blueline. He will likely play on the third defensive pairing next season for the team.