The Colorado Avalanche added Nicolas Roy and Nick Blankenburg in a series of trades made before the deadline on Friday.

Roy, 29, debuted in the 5-4 shootout win against the Dallas Stars. He slotted in the third-line center position but was quiet in his first game.

READ MORE: ‘They must really like me’: Nazem Kadri excited to return to Avalanche

Six seasons and a Stanley Cup with the Vegas Golden Knights, Roy is familiar with the Avs and is thrilled to join the top team in the NHL.

“You want to be part of a team that has a chance. And obviously we have one here …,” Roy said. “Really talented group, and obviously, I bring my experience. Really excited for the push.”

Blankenburg has not played with the team yet. The extra defenseman was added for depth and shores up the team’s defensive strength.

The 27-year-old defenceman has some ties with a few new teammates and is happy to be part of a potential Stanley Cup team.

“I knew Wedgie, he was in Nashville for a little bit when I was there. Brinds (Gavin Brindley) just from the Michigan connection, and I missed him by a year. And then Mans, (Josh Manson) we’re close, kind of through chapels in our faith,” Blankenburg said.

How Avalanche coach Bednar handled the trades

It was a busy two days ahead of the trade deadline for the Avalanche. Following a back-to-back in California on Monday and Tuesday, the team geared up to face their division rival, the Dallas Stars, on deadline day.

“On game day, we’re focused on the 20 guys that are playing that night. Some of them are new, so they get the nuts and bolts of our system play, structural play. Nic Roy didn’t penalty kill a lot last night, but he’s going to be a big part of our penalty kill …,” Bednar said. “Some guys, you can jump them right into a regular role, but for some new guys, if things are different, you can just build them into it. It can be challenging, but our League’s always played on trade deadline day.”

Bednar noted that Nazem Kadri’s return should be an easier transition, as his game has not changed much since winning the Stanley Cup in 2022. He confirmed the 35-year-old forward will play his first game back in burgundy and blue against the Minnesota Wild on Sunday afternoon.