Mueller Signs for Two in Colorado

  It was announced Friday that the Colorado Avalanche have agreed to a two year contract with 22 year-old free-agent Peter Mueller. He’s set to make $1.5 million in his first year, and $2.5 million in his second.

"We are pleased to have reached an agreement with Peter," said Avalanche General Manager Greg Sherman. "We look forward to seeing him next week at training camp."

  Mueller was drafted by the Phoenix Coyotes 8th overall in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft but failed to live up to expectations in the desert. In 207 games Mueller scored 107 points

  Mueller was effectively traded on July 1st at the trade deadline in exchange for Wojtek Wolski. The deal also sent Kevin Porter to the Avs.  In my opinion this was the most underrated transaction on deadline day, a real deal. The trade worked both ways, as Mueller and Wolski found a home fast in a new setting, each scoring plenty of timely points for their new respective clubs.

  In Mueller’s 15 games for the Avalanche he recorded 9 goals, 11 assists, 9 powerplay points and a +4 rating. In his 54 games played for the Coyotes ahead of the trade Mueller only managed 4 goals and 13 assists with a measly 2 powerplay points.  Mueller was stopped short of the playoffs after sustaining a concussion April 6th by a blindside hit from Rob Blake along the boards (pictured).

  $2.5 million is steep on the second year of the deal, but if Mueller can find consistency in his game here in Colorado the Avalanche will have yet another young player on the rise.

- Kendall Grubbs