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There are many kinds of relationships in sports. For the Colorado Avalanche, even though some key players have moved on, there are still strong bonds between former teammates. Off the ice, they’re friends—but on the ice, they become opponents. That’s just the nature of the game.

Several players from the Avalanche’s 2022 Stanley Cup team are still around, like Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar. However, others have left, including Mikko Rantanen—a departure that could have long-term effects on the team. It’s a reminder that while relationships matter, business decisions and salary cap constraints often take priority. Teams can’t keep everyone they want.

After their Cup win, the Avalanche saw several key departures: Nazem Kadri, Andre Burakovsky, Darcy Kuemper, and Evan Rodrigues, among others. Even Kiefer Sherwood found success elsewhere, having a career year with the Canucks. That’s just how the league works.

On Sunday, Kadri stirred things up on X with a post seemingly suggesting the Avs should have held onto Rantanen, referencing his jersey number “#96.” The Dallas Stars’ official account even jumped in with a playful dog emoji reply.

https://x.com/43_Kadri/status/1921700165494133063?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1921700165494133063%7Ctwgr%5E7e16bf5bd46da59c46ed47bb932e44fbab804617%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fmilehighsticking.com%2Fformer-avalanche-player-takes-shot-at-team-for-rantanen-departure

Since their championship, Colorado has consistently made the playoffs—but they haven’t made it past the second round. Coach Jared Bednar has faced second-round exits four times and three first-round losses, including this year. Some fans are beginning to lose faith in Bednar and GM Chris MacFarland.

When players post cryptic messages like Kadri’s, it can feel like they sense trouble ahead. But speculation won’t change the outcome. All we can do is watch and see where this team goes from here. The Avalanche recently fired Ray Bennett, their assistant coach responsible for special teams—a much-needed move. Now, all eyes are on who they bring in next and how that change will impact their future.