There was a lot to like about Wojtek Wolski in the nine games he played for the Avalanche this season, but the Avs don’t think he is ready to remain at the NHL level full-time.
Wolski was sent back to his junior team, the Brampton Battalion of the Ontario Hockey League, on Wednesday. The Avs recalled forward Paul Healey from Lowell of the American League.
Wolski, 19, scored two goals and had six points for Colorado, and was a minus-5. Under NHL bylaws, Wolski cannot play for the Avs again this season because of his age.
“Overall, we think his future is bright,” Avs coach Joel Quenneville said. “We want to be patient with him. Hopefully, he can go down there and be a leader on his team and have a productive year.”
Wolski’s defensive game has some weaknesses, and Quenneville said he needs to get stronger. But his offensive production was good for someone so young, and he figures to be a contender to make the team next season.
“I think he had a strong case to stay here,” Quenneville said. “But we explained it to him that we’re doing this, thinking you’re going to be a big part of the organization in the future.”
Wolski’s $984,200 salary could have been a factor in his demotion as well. Healey will make the prorated NHL minimum of $450,000 with the Avalanche.
Healey had one goal and three assists in five games for the Lock Monsters.
Adrian Dater can be reached at 303-820-5454 or adater@denverpost.com.
