It was a busy day for the Avalanche on top of their trade with Nashville earlier today. The team announced (Twitter link) that they have loaned defenseman John Ludvig to AHL Colorado on a conditioning assignment while also assigning forward Givani Smith to the Eagles. Meanwhile, the Avs also recalled defenseman Keaton Middleton and winger Jere Innala from the Eagles, per the AHL’s transactions log.
Ludvig was claimed on waivers back in October but playing time has been hard to come by as he has been limited to just eight games so far. He has a pair of assists and 16 hits while averaging just under 13 minutes a night. Ludvig has only played three times since November 10th and hasn’t suited up once since December 5th so he’ll be well-served getting some game action in with the Eagles. The conditioning assignment can last up to two weeks.
As for Smith, he was acquired earlier this month from San Jose after he cleared waivers. Since then, he has gotten into seven games, bringing his season total to 13. For the season, the 26-year-old doesn’t have a point while adding 18 penalty minutes and 20 hits in a little over six minutes a night of playing time. He can only play in three more NHL games before needing to pass through waivers again.
Middleton and Innala, meanwhile, were reassigned to the minors before the holiday break, allowing the Avs to save some money (though not bank cap space since they’re in LTIR). Middleton has nine blocks and 13 hits in nine games so far while Innala has been held off the scoresheet in his first three NHL appearances.
Smith needs to stay in the AHL with Eagles he honestly doesn’t bring enough game to take up a roster spot.