There are numerous paths to enter the limelight of the National Hockey League. Although many Colorado Avalanche players were drafted, some found their professional opportunities through alternative means. Discover the journeys of college hockey players who, despite going undrafted, now excel at the highest level of the sport.

Logan O’Connor

O’Connor joined the Avalanche for the 2018-19 season following a successful three-year period at the University of Denver. During his time there, he participated in the NCAA Frozen Four in 2016 and emerged as the National Champion in 2017.

During his inaugural professional season, O’Connor participated in 64 regular-season games for the AHL’s Colorado Eagles, netting 42 points (19 goals and 23 assists). Consequently, he secured the third-highest point tally for the team. Additionally, he made appearances in four Calder Cup Playoff games. O’Connor’s NHL debut transpired on December 31, 2018, opposing the Los Angeles Kings. This match marked the commencement of his five regular-season NHL games that season.

During the 2019-20 season, which marked his second year as a professional hockey player and his latest stint in the AHL, he participated in 40 regular-season games for the Eagles, accumulating 25 points (12 goals and 13 assists). Additionally, while playing for the Avalanche that season, he scored two goals in 16 regular season games, one of which was his inaugural NHL goal on November 27, 2019. O’Connor also had the opportunity to make his debut in the Stanley Cup Playoffs on August 26, 2020, within the bubble environment, where he contributed with one assist across six games.

LOGAN O’CONNOR, FIRST NHL GOAL!!!!#GoAvsGo pic.twitter.com/6IAPhMME81

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) November 28, 2019

O’Connor, who recorded five points (3 goals and 2 assists) in 22 regular-season games and participated in two playoff matches during the 2020-21 season, transitioned into a full-time NHL player.

During the 2021-22 season, he contributed to the Avalanche’s success by scoring 24 points (8 goals and 16 assists) in 81 regular-season games. He also played a crucial role in the playoffs, accumulating four points (1 goal and 3 assists) in 17 games, which ultimately led to the team winning their first Stanley Cup since 2001. The following season marked a milestone for O’Connor as he participated in a full 82-game season for the first time in his career. His exceptional performance resulted in a career-high of 26 points (9 goals and 17 assists). Furthermore, he continued his impressive form by participating in all seven playoff games that year.

Despite being limited to just 57 regular-season games due to injury, O’Connor had a standout performance last season. He achieved a career-high of 13 goals, in addition to 12 assists, and even managed to score his very first hat trick.

Sam Malinski

Sam Malinski, a junior at Cornell, earned the prestigious title of Second Team All-American for the 2022-23 season. Following the conclusion of his college career, Malinski wasted no time and swiftly joined the Colorado Eagles, a team affiliated with the Avalanche organization, to embark on his professional hockey journey. Throughout his time in the regular season with the Eagles, he showcased his skills by accumulating an impressive five points consisting of three goals and two assists. Malinski’s exceptional performance continued into the Calder Cup Playoff games, where he contributed five points solely through assists in seven intense matches.

During his second season playing for the Eagles, Malinski managed to accumulate a total of 27 points (5 goals and 22 assists) throughout 46 regular-season games. He also contributed with two assists in three playoff games. Furthermore, he marked his NHL debut by showcasing his skills in 23 games and earning a total of 10 points (3 goals and 7 assists). Notably, Malinski achieved his first assist on December 7, 2023, and scored his first goal on December 13, 2023.

Still thinking about Sam Malinski’s first NHL goal. #GoAvsGo pic.twitter.com/El5hFYFLiP

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) December 14, 2023

Jason Polin

Polin, similar to Malinski, became a member of the Colorado Eagles during the 2022-23 season following the conclusion of his senior year at Western Michigan University. Making his debut in the professional hockey league, he recorded a single assist over the course of seven AHL regular-season matches and participated in four Calder Cup Playoff games.

During the 2023-24 season, Polin showcased his skills in 42 AHL regular-season games, accumulating a total of 10 points (4 goals and 6 assists). Additionally, he participated in two playoff games. Furthermore, he had the opportunity to make his NHL debut, representing the Avalanche in seven games. Notably, on January 16, 2024, he contributed to the team’s victory against the Ottawa Senators by scoring his inaugural NHL goal.