Photo: Bridget Samuels/Flickr.

The Avalanche just announced that they have re-signed defenseman Shane O’Brien. O’Brien played in 75 games this year for the Avs, and he scored 3 goals and 17 assists. The 17 assists matched a career-high 17 assists when he played for the Tampa Bay Lightning. O’Brien is not just a good player (though he needs to work on having fewer costly turnovers), but he is a “heart and soul” guy in the room. He is not just a glue guy, but probably THE glue guy from what I’ve seen. Although he has not been given an “A” at any time, he has clearly worked on being a leader for the team, and mentoring the younger players.

The contract is for the next three years, and he will make $1.8, $2.0, and $2.2 million during each year respectively.