DENVER — The Colorado Avalanche have started their collegiate signings with two players on Wednesday. Colorado signed a goaltender and forward both to two-year entry-level contracts starting next season. Both players will probably begin the season with the Colorado Eagles of the AHL or the Utah Grizzlies of the ECHL.

Isak Posch is coming to the Avalanche after playing the last two seasons with St. Cloud State University in Minnesota. The six-foot-three, 209-pound goaltender recorded a 17–16–2 record, a .915 save percentage, a 2.60 goals allowed average and three shutouts in 36 career NCAA games. He is quick to cover his five-hole when needed and knows how to use his edges. Posch can make himself “big” using his arms and enormous frame to cut off the angles from shooters that are attacking his crease.

His vocal communication with the players on the ice characterized his leadership. He shouts adjustments to his team, even when they are in the neutral zone. Being quiet in the crease is something that no team ever wants in a goalie, so this works out to the Avalanche’s advantage.

Cooper Gay will come to the Avalanche from St. Thomas University after three years. He attended the Avalanche’s Development Camp over the summer and obviously turned some heads. The six-foot-four, 209-pound right winger put up career high numbers in every category this season. In just 35 games played, Gay had 19 goals and 11 assists while serving as the alternate captain.


Gay can skate with speed and poise through the neutral zone, all doing so with his head up. He has some solid hands that allow him to get through traffic and then speed up. His style of play will complement the Colorado Eagles as he takes a year to develop in the American League.