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Avalanche Prospect Makes NHL Debut in Mighty Win Against the Ducks

Many new faces have shown themselves in Colorado's locker room this year. With injuries up and down the lineup, the organization has seen nine different NHL debuts from their prospect farm this season. Most recently was Finland native Jere Innala, who signed a one-year contract with the organization this past June for $870K.

Colorado Avalanche left wing Jere Innala (22) against the Anaheim Ducks in the third period at Honda Center.<p>Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images</p>
Colorado Avalanche left wing Jere Innala (22) against the Anaheim Ducks in the third period at Honda Center.

Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Innala totaled 7:09 minutes of ice time in his debut. Though he didn't find himself on the scoresheet, he added some needed physicality to the lineup with three hits for the night.

The 26-year-old went undrafted and played with Liiga (the Finnish league) and the Swedish Hockey League before signing his contract in June. The best season of his career came with HPK during the 2018-19 season, where he recorded 24 goals and 25 assists for a total of 41 points.

In 24 games with the Colorado Eagles this season, he's tallied five goals and 10 assists. His last goal came against the Henderson Silver Nights (AHL affiliate of the Vegas Golden Knights) on November 30th. His last point came on December 13th against the Grand Rapids Griffins (AHL affiliate of the Detroit Red Wings), an assist on a goal scored by teammate T.J. Tynan on the power play.


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