Does Goalie Jonas Gustavsson Have Sites Set On Avalanche?

The best goaltender in the world, outside of the NHL, may be looking to join the Colorado Avalanche.

Twenty-four year-old Jonas Gustavsson may have interest in the Avalanche, partly because Patrick Roy (one of his idols) is considering joining the team as a coach or in the front office.

It was reported earlier this month that Gustavsson has narrowed the list of NHL teams he’s considering to also include Dallas, Toronto, and San Jose.

The Denver Post reports that the Avalanche have confirmed interest in the goalie's services.

While he is an unrestricted free agent, Gustavsson would be subject to a maximum rookie salary for one year, currently set at $900,000.

It would be likely that his first contract will be for one season, because after he turns 25 he would not be subject to entry-level salary by-laws.

Unlike traditional unrestricted free agents, Gustavsson can sign with the team he chooses at any time, rather than needing to wait for the July 1st start of free agency.

"I think Colorado would be a great fit. It's a great city to play hockey in, even if they had a rough season," former Av's star Peter Forsberg told Swedish reporters.

"I think it would be less pressure for him there than Toronto or Philadelphia&searchTerm=Philadelphia">Philadelphia or New York."

Gustavsson's mother is reportedly ill, which could delay any meetings planned between him and the Avalanche, or any other suiting team.

He led Farjestad to the championship of the Swedish Elite League this year, posting a 1.96 goals-against average and .932 save percentage.

In this year's World Ice Hockey Championships, he earned a bronze medal with the Swedish team.