More Returning Players

With the July 1st free agency date just over a month away, the Avs have announced the signing of two more players to new contracts. Backup goaltender Peter Budaj and left winger David Koci each signed a one year deal for the upcoming 2010-2011 season.

Budaj has been with the Avs for five seasons as both a starting goaltender and a backup. This last season, Budaj served as the backup for Craig Anderson and appeared in 15 games. When he was not playing, Budaj was still busy on the bench watching the other team's shooters and telling Anderson about their shooting tendencies. He would also consult with the Avs shooters during a shootout and let them know the opposing goaltender's weak spots.

Last season was Koci's first year as an Av and a career high for him. He appeared in 43 games, more than any previous season in his NHL career. He was not shy about dropping the gloves while on the ice.