Numerous pathways exist for individuals to enter the limelight of the National Hockey League. Although numerous Colorado Avalanche players were selected through the draft, there are those who received their professional opportunities through alternative means. Discover the tales of undrafted college hockey players who currently excel at the highest level of hockey.

Logan O’Connor

Following a successful three-year tenure at the University of Denver, during which he participated in the NCAA Frozen Four in 2016 and emerged victorious in the National Championship in 2017, O’Connor officially joined the Avalanche for the 2018-19 season.

During his initial professional season, O’Connor participated in 64 regular-season matches for the AHL’s Colorado Eagles, managing to accumulate 42 points (19 goals and 23 assists). This achievement placed him in the third position among the team’s highest point scorers. Additionally, he took part in four Calder Cup Playoff games. O’Connor marked his NHL debut on December 31, 2018, when he faced the Los Angeles Kings. This marked the beginning of a total of five regular-season NHL games he played during that season.

During the 2019-20 season, which marked his second year as a professional player and his most recent stint in the AHL, he participated in 40 regular-season games for the Eagles and accumulated 25 points (12 goals and 13 assists). Additionally, while playing for the Avalanche that season, he scored two goals in 16 regular-season games, including his first NHL goal on November 27, 2019. He made his debut in the Stanley Cup Playoffs on August 26, 2020, within the bubble, and contributed with one assist in six games.

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

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) November 28, 2019

O’Connor transitioned into a regular NHL player following the 2020-21 season, during which he recorded a total of five points (3 goals and 2 assists) in 22 regular-season games and participated in two playoff games.

During the 2021-22 season, he achieved a total of 24 points (8 goals and 16 assists) in 81 regular-season games. He also contributed four points (1 goal and 3 assists) in 17 playoff games, which ultimately led to the Avalanche securing their first Stanley Cup victory since 2001. In the subsequent season, O’Connor completed a full 82-game season, marking a first in his career, and achieved his highest career point total of 26 (9 goals and 17 assists). He also played in all seven playoff games that year.

O’Connor had an exceptional performance last season, achieving a career-high of 13 goals and 12 assists despite being limited to just 57 regular-season games due to injury. Additionally, he also accomplished his first-career hat trick.

Sam Malinski

After completing his collegiate season, Sam Malinski, a junior at Cornell, earned the title of Second Team All-American for the 2022-23 season. Following this achievement, Malinski joined the Avalanche organization and immediately began his professional career with the Colorado Eagles. Throughout his seven regular-season games with the Eagles, he demonstrated his skills by accumulating five points (3 goals and 2 assists). Moreover, during the Calder Cup Playoff games, Malinski continued to impress by contributing five points solely through assists in seven matches.

Malinski had an impressive second season with the Eagles, tallying 27 points (5 goals and 22 assists) in 46 regular-season games. He also contributed two assists in three playoff games. Furthermore, Malinski made his NHL debut and showcased his skills by recording 10 points (3 goals and 7 assists) in 23 games. Notably, he 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

Following the completion of his senior season at Western Michigan University, Polin, similar to Malinski, joined the Colorado Eagles in the 2022-23 season. As he delved into professional hockey, he managed to contribute with one assist throughout seven AHL regular-season matches and also participated in four Calder Cup Playoff games.

During the 2023-24 AHL regular season, Polin accumulated a total of 10 points (4 goals and 6 assists) across 42 games. Additionally, he participated in two playoff matches. Moreover, Polin marked his NHL debut by playing seven games for the Avalanche. Notably, he achieved his first NHL goal during a victorious encounter against the Ottawa Senators on January 16, 2024.

Malinski ➡️ Olofsson ➡️ Polin

A few helping hands for Jason Polin's first NHL goal. #GoAvsGo pic.twitter.com/PX39BrzZfJ

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) January 19, 2024