One Avalanche Prospect Could Surprise Everyone
Every NHL draft class has a player that simply just outperforms expectations. The Colorado Avalanche may have found that scenario in their third-round selection of Beckett Hamilton.
Colorado acquired the No. 74 pick in the draft after trading Ross Colton to the Nashville Predators. His pick didn’t get a lot of attention due to Egor Shilov gaining headlines, but Hamilton is worthy.
Hamilton comes to the team with leadership experience, proven production and two-way play. When everything plays out, Hamilton has the ability to outweigh his pick number and be one of the most important moves of the 2026 offseason.
Production Backed by Reputation
During his time with the Red Deer Rebels in the Western Hockey League, Hamilton produced. In the 2026-26 season he had 18 goals and 44 assists for 62 points in 67 games.
In his time with the Rebels, he turned into one of the most dependable two-way forwards in the league. That also led him to becoming the captain for his leadership.
Colorado enjoys players who are capable of contributing in multiple situations and not just specialists. Hamilton brings that kind of play to the rink.
Hamilton Could Surprise Everyone
Stating the obvious, Egor Shilov was bound to get more attention given that he is the second-round pick over Hamilton as a third-rounder. But history shows us that third-round picks are very capable of being NHL regulars, and we look for Hamilton to be an everyday player for Colorado.
Hamilton has all the ability to become one of those picks. He may never be the flashiest or get the most headlines, but more importantly, he may turn into a dependable middle-six center, who can be counted on every time he takes the ice.
If everything comes together, he will be a tremendous value pick at No. 74.
Hamilton Excited to Join Team
In an article on NHL.com by Coby Maeir, Hamilton expressed just how excited he was to be drafted by a team like the Colorado Avalanche.
“To get picked by this type of team is unbelievable,” Hamilton said. “I’m so grateful for this.”
During his interview he admitted that he may not be the biggest player at 5-foot-11 and 170 pounds, but he believes he brings aggressive play from a guy who likes to be around the net.
“I like to score.”
What more could you want from a prospect? He’s got the skill, excited to be a part of the team and he wants to be an integral part of play.
If his work ethic and hockey IQ continue to evolve, he could be a hidden gem for the Avalanche.
Colorado still has some business to take care of this offseason and it starts with signing extensions for some of their cornerstone players. While those types of stories stir up the most news, Hamilton may be silently waiting for his chance to shine and exceed all expectations.
Laura Lambert resides in Wiggins, Colo. with her husband, Ricky and two sons, Brayden and Boedy. She attended the University of Northern Colorado while studying economics. She is an accomplished rodeo athlete and barrel horse trainer along with being a life-long sports fan. Over the years, Laura has been active in journalism in a variety of roles. While continuing to cover western sports and country music, she is currently enjoying expanding her reach into multiple sports including MLB, NHL, NCAA and WNBA. Laura covers the Miami Marlins, Houston Astros, Texas Rangers, Detroit Tigers, Colorado Rockies, Toronto Blue Jays, Colorado Avalanche and Rodeo for On SI. You can reach her at lauralambertmedia@gmail.com