Chris Wagner was another player that was part of the list of returning players. He joined the Colorado Avalanche for the 2023–24 season, and they gave him an extension through this year. He played the most games for the Avalanche (28) than any of the three seasons, but had only one goal in the NHL. The Avalanche did not acquire Wagner to score goals. They brought him in to kill penalties and deliver heavy hits when necessary. And that is exactly what Wagner did for the Avalanche.


For the Colorado Eagles, Chris Wagner was a much different type of player. He still provided the heavy hitting body that every team needs, but he added scoring to it. Wagner is skilled at the AHL level to play both on the penalty kill and the power play. His stay at home type of defense became important during the Eagles run for the Pacific Division crown.

Wagner finished the Eagles regular season with 19 goals, enough for fourth on the team. Seven of those goals came on the power play while two were short handed. His 12 assists helped in crucial moments during games for the Eagles. Wagner had an eye to find the open man when they needed it most.

His leadership was a big reason that the Avalanche held on to the veteran. Head coach Aaron Schneekloth often brought up that Wager was one of the most vocal players on the bench. He knew how to calm the young rookies in the high tension moments. The Walpole, Massachusetts native, also led by example. He often had a smile on his face after hitting an opponent, as well.

Wagner will be an unrestricted free agent this summer. It would be no surprise that the Eagles offer him an AHL contract to stay in Colorado. He is currently playing for the Eagles in the Calder Cup Playoff and has five points in six games.

Chris Wagner Interviews