Predators’ Chris MacFarland Trades for Ross Colton from Avalanche

In a swift move that underscores his aggressive approach, new Nashville Predators executive Chris MacFarland has orchestrated a deal with his former team, the Colorado Avalanche, to acquire forward Ross Colton. The trade, finalized on Tuesday, also brings goaltender Isak Posch to the Predators, while Colorado receives goalie Magnus Chrona and a pair of third-round draft picks in 2026 and 2027.

MacFarland, who recently transitioned from his role as Avalanche general manager to president of hockey operations and GM in Nashville, expressed enthusiasm about adding Colton to his roster. “We are very excited to add Ross Colton to our forward mix,” said MacFarland. “Ross is a versatile, two-way winger who will add sandpaper and grit into our middle six group.”

Colton, 29, had a solid campaign in Colorado last season, tallying nine goals and 15 assists across 73 games. He was also a physical presence on the ice, ranking third among Avalanche players with 159 hits. His tenure with Colorado included a playoff run that saw the team reach the Western Conference Final, only to be swept by the Vegas Golden Knights.

This trade marks a full-circle moment for MacFarland, who played a pivotal role in bringing Colton to Colorado from the Tampa Bay Lightning on June 28, 2023. Following that trade, Colton signed a four-year contract with the Avalanche, solidifying his place in the team’s lineup.

For Colorado, the acquisition of additional draft capital is a boon as Joe Sakic steps back into the GM role following MacFarland’s exit. Sakic, who also serves as president of hockey operations, previously held the GM position when the Avalanche captured the Stanley Cup in 2022.

Joining the Predators, Chrona will be part of a goaltending duo that includes Mackenzie Blackwood and Scott Wedgewood. This tandem previously won the William M. Jennings Trophy, awarded to the goaltenders who played at least 25 games for the team allowing the fewest goals during the regular season.

Last season, 25-year-old Chrona posted a record of 9-11-3 with a 2.94 goals-against average while playing for the Milwaukee Admirals in the AHL. His familiarity with the region is an added bonus, having played at the University of Denver from 2019 to 2023, where he was part of the team that won the national championship in the 2021-22 season.

Posch, a Swedish goaltender, has spent the past two seasons with the Colorado Eagles and was selected for the 2026 AHL All-Star Classic representing the Pacific Division. MacFarland noted, “He is a big goalie who will add to our already impressive depth at this position.”

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.