Samuel Girard wrapped up his eighth season in burgundy and blue in 2024-25. On the blue line, he’s still been a usual threat and unfortunately, divisive in the fanbase.

Girard had a nice year in his 73 games played in the regular season. He scored three goals but dished out an impressive 21 assists. He did so averaging over 20 minutes of ice nightly. In the playoffs, he added a goal and two assists. It included a dominant effort in Game 4 against the Dallas Stars.

On the defensive end, he’s been a solid defender willing to get in the way. He had 111 blocks on the season, the second-highest in his career. It’s also been alongside 62 hits for the smaller defender.

However, like several other defenders this season, he did struggle with the puck. Girard finished with a career-high 86 turnovers.

With those issues and standing at only 5-foot-10, fans continue to push the idea of Girard being traded. However, with money being an issue for the Colorado Avalanche, he continues to have solid value for his play and worth.

He signed his lengthy seven-year contract with an AAV of $5 million before the start of the 2019-20 season. The contract started in the shortened 2021 season. Including the upcoming 2025-26 season, he still has two years left on his deal.

Furthermore, the 27-year-old defender has a modified no-trade clause involving nine teams. If the Avs were looking to save money, they could move Girard if he waives his no-trade clause to certain teams. However, they would be getting worse on the blue line.

Girard still has a lot of time ahead of him in the league as one of the youngest remaining players on the first team roster. He will continue to have valiant defenders behind him, both on the team and in the fanbase.

He should still be utilized as he has been the last few years. As long as he stays healthy and can find a solid defensive partner, Samuel Girard should be here to stay for the long run as a member of the Avalanche.