Like-minded Avalanche prospects Cale Makar and Conor Timmins were the second and ninth defensemen selected in the 2017 NHL draft, with Makar going No. 4 overall and Timmins as the first pick of the second round. At the time, it was assumed Makar would sign his NHL entry-level contract and join the Avs before Timmins.
Much has changed. Timmins, 19, signed with Colorado in March and is expected to compete for an opening-night roster spot in October, while the unsigned Makar, also 19, will begin his sophomore season at the University of Massachusetts.
Makar isn’t bothered by the situation — which partly unfolded because of his desire to stay in school.