Comments (0) Best Av - 2008

Paul Stastny

Colorado hockey lovers were in a state of bliss when the Avalanche brought back icons Peter Forsberg and Adam Foote earlier this year. But because of their age, not to mention Forsberg's physical condition, neither can be considered long-term solutions for what ails the team — a fact reinforced in early March when both got hurt. Paul Stastny, in contrast, is the team's future. He's just 22 and looks about twelve, but he's developed into a prolific force around the net, leading the team in points, goals and assists despite his own stretch on injured reserve. Forsberg and Foote, as well as fellow elder Joe Sakic, who's also had some mending to do of late, will play a major part in determining how far the Avs go this season. As for Stastny, he'll be key in 2008 and hopefully for years to come.