Brent Burns

The Avalanche's veteran defenseman is running out of time to chase the one thing that's eluded him throughout his Hall of Fame career. Burns has been a perennial elite performer, but Father Time waits for no one, and Colorado knows this window is closing fast. The question isn't whether Burns can still play at an elite level - it's whether the Avalanche can build a championship roster around him before his window slams shut. Everything hinges on what happens in the next few seasons.

Brent Burns' legendary ironman streak faces a real threat this season now that he's with the Colorado Avalanche, marking a potential turning point in one of hockey's most impressive durability records. The veteran defenseman's age and the Avalanche's depth at the position create circumstances that could finally end his remarkable run of consecutive games played. This development carries implications for how the Avalanche manage their roster and Burns' legacy.