Veteran defenseman Brent Burns signed a one-year, $1 million deal with the Colorado Avalanche Wednesday, the club . 

It ended a short free agency stint for Burns this summer, who has spent the past three seasons with the Carolina Hurricanes. 

The 40-year-old, six-time NHL all-star brings a strong, veteran presence to the Avs' backend core led by defensemen Cale Makar and Devon Toews. 

Although Burns' superstar status has waned in recent years, he continued to fill big minutes in Carolina. That included helping the Hurricanes reach the Eastern Conference Final twice in the past three seasons. 

Burns has been known for his strength as an offensive contributor throughout his career, most notably as a member of the San Jose Sharks.

In the past four seasons between San Jose and Carolina, Burns has laced up his skates for all 82 regular season games from 2021-22 through 2024-2025.

Burns is expected to fill a smaller role as a Colorado Avalanche, providing much-welcomed depth at the position.