Position: D First signed: 1991-1992 Initial salary: $177,250
Yet another undrafted gem, Klemm joined the Quebec Nordiques in the early 90’s. In Canada, he toiled around in the minors, earning the occasional call-up, but never stuck with the Nordiques. Still, the organization stayed patient with him.
His first full season in the NHL was the franchise’s first in Colorado. For six full seasons, he patrolled the Avalanche blueline. Klemm was an effective shutdown defenseman, helping lead the Avalanche to two Stanley Cups. He never had the name recognition of his counterparts like Foote, Bourque, Blake and Ozolinsh, but he remained a calm, steadying presence out there.
He was so well-respected by the organization that he was an alternate captain during the 2000-2001 season, which culminated with him winning his second Stanley Cup with the Avalanche.
