Avalanche Acquire Lindgren, Vesey in Major Trade with Rangers

DENVER, Colo. — The Colorado Avalanche Hockey Club announced a significant trade today, acquiring defenseman Ryan Lindgren, forward Jimmy Vesey, and defenseman Hank Kempf from the New York Rangers. In exchange, Colorado sent defenseman Calvin de Haan, forward Juuso Parssinen, a second-round draft pick, and a fourth-round draft pick in the 2025 NHL Draft to New York.

The announcement was made on March 1, 2025, amid a pivotal trade season as both teams vie for playoff positioning. As part of the agreement, the Rangers will receive whichever draft picks from Colorado result in a higher placement in the draft order.

Lindgren, 27, has been a steady contributor for the Rangers this season, playing 54 games with a career-high 19 points (2 goals, 17 assists). He has averaged nearly 20 minutes of ice time per game, ranking second among his team’s defensemen in points. Furthermore, Lindgren’s 146:23 of shorthanded ice time leads all Rangers skaters, demonstrating his integral role on the team’s penalty kill.

The Burnsville, Minnesota native also has a history of playoff success, having helped the Rangers reach the Conference Finals twice, contributing 11 points (3g, 8a) in 43 postseason games. Lindgren’s strong defensive play is expected to bolster Colorado’s back end.

“Ryan brings experience and grit to our team,” said Avalanche General Manager Joe Sakic in a statement. “His ability to eat minutes and perform in high-pressure situations makes him a valuable addition.”

Vesey, 31, also joins the Avalanche after playing 33 games this season and scoring six points (4g, 2a). Known for his versatility, the forward reached a milestone in his career by playing his 600th NHL game and scoring his 100th career goal this season.

“Jimmy adds depth to our lineup and can be a reliable option in different roles,” Sakic commented on Vesey’s trade. “His experience can contribute to our playoff push.”

Kempf, a 22-year-old defenseman, is finishing his senior season at Cornell University. He has accumulated seven points (2g, 5a) in 28 games this season. The Rangers originally drafted him in the seventh round of the 2021 NHL Draft.

On the other side of the deal, Calvin de Haan, who signed with the Avalanche as a free agent last summer, has played 44 games and tallied seven points (all assists). Juuso Parssinen, acquired from the Predators, has logged 22 games with Colorado, contributing six points (2g, 4a).

New York’s decision to reshape its roster comes as the team remains four points out of a playoff spot. The Rangers, who aim to avoid losing key assets without compensation, will retain 50% of Lindgren’s cap hit following the trade.

“This trade allows us to recoup draft picks while also acquiring young talent,” said Rangers General Manager Chris Drury. “Parssinen is a player we believe can fit well into our plans moving forward.”

The Avalanche are looking to strengthen their defense and deepen their offense as they prepare for the final stretch of the NHL season. Lindgren’s addition is expected to provide immediate impact, while Vesey’s veteran presence could strengthen Colorado’s depth heading into the playoffs.