NHL Free Agency: Colorado Avalanche Acquire Brad Stuart From The San Jose Sharks

Mar 24, 2014; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; San Jose Sharks defenseman Brad Stuart (7) skates against the Calgary Flames during the third period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Calgary Flames won 2-1 in the shootout. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

The Colorado Avalanche and their fan base received shocking news Tuesday morning as Paul Stastny signed a four-year deal with the rival St. Louis Blues. However, Colorado would continue to improve their roster as they made a trade with the San Jose Sharks, acquiring defenseman Brad Stuart. The Avalanche in return will give up a second-round pick in 2016 and a sixth-round pick in 2017.

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Stuart, 34, will be a great addition to this Avs team that is in desperate need of instant defense. He is a physical defender that the Avalanche lacked last year as they could have used that in the playoffs.

Brad Stuart was a 3rd overall selection back in 1998 NHL Entry Draft by the San Jose Sharks. He spent eight years of his NHL career with the Sharks, five years with the Detroit Red Wings, two years with the Boston Bruins, and one year each with the Calgary Flames and Los Angeles Kings.

The left-handed shooter has collected 77 goals and 245 assists during his 17-year career, acquiring 322 points while racking up a plus/minus of +14.

Make sure to stay tuned with Mile High Maniac throughout NHL Free Agency.