(Anaheim) The Anaheim Ducks have traded defenseman Josh Manson to the Colorado Avalanche for defenseman Drew Helleson and a second-round pick in the 2023 draft.
Posted yesterday at 7:43 p.m.
The Ducks confirmed on Monday the trade of Manson, an eight-year NHL veteran who spent his entire career in Anaheim. He is likely to become an unrestricted free agent this summer.
The 30-year-old Manson is a former sixth-round pick who earned his spot on the Ducks’ roster in late 2014.
The son of ex-strongman Dave Manson, he’s been a constant presence on the Ducks’ blue line. In 453 games in a Ducks uniform, Manson scored 26 goals and 87 assists and amassed 431 penalty minutes.
Manson, who has four goals and five assists in 45 games this season, will bring depth to the Avalanche (42-13-5), who lead the overall NHL standings.
Manson returned to action with the Ducks last weekend after missing 13 games with a finger injury.
As for Helleson, he is a 20-year-old prospect who has four goals and 21 assists in 32 games with the Boston College Eagles this season. He also wore the colors of the United States team during the Beijing Olympics, collecting an assist.
Sixth in the Pacific Division, the Ducks (27-25-10) are in danger of missing the playoffs for the fourth straight season.