The 6-foot-3, 209-pound center played his first full NHL season in 2020-21 and tallied 17 points (11g/6a) and a +10 rating in 50 contests, tied for third among NHL rookies in plus/minus and tied for 10th in goals. He finished the regular season tied for fourth on the team in goals and tied for fifth in plus/minus rating. His 11 markers were tied for sixth by a rookie in Minnesota franchise history. Sturm added two points (1g/1a) in seven playoff contests and led the team in plus/minus rating (+1) during the postseason.
"Nico is a big, strong forward who also brings a heavy defensive presence. He is a defensive-minded center who can chip in offensively, is good on draws and can contribute on the penalty kill," said Avalanche Executive Vice President / General Manager Joe Sakic. "We would like to thank Tyson for everything he has brought to our team over the last five seasons, not just on the ice, but in the generous and impactful work he has done throughout the community."
The Augsburg, Germany, native played one season in the American Hockey League with the Iowa Wild in 2019-20, collecting 32 points (12g/20a) in 55 games.
Prior to turning pro, Sturm played three seasons at Clarkson University from 2016-19, collecting 103 points (36g/67a) in 118 career NCAA games. He served as team captain his junior season in 2018-19 and was a Top Ten Hobey Baker Award Finalist and First-Team CCM/AHCA All-American selection. Additionally, Sturm was an ECAC First-Team All-League selection and was named to the 2019 ECAC All-Tournament Team. He earned the conference's Best Defensive Forward award in two consecutive seasons from 2017-19.
Jost was selected by the Avalanche in the first round (10th overall) of the 2016 NHL Draft. He has recorded 103 points (45g/58a) in 321 career games, all with Colorado.
