The Colorado Avalanche were expected to be major players in this summer's UFA market, and on Sunday they made their first significant acquisition by inking defenseman Scott Hannan to a four-year, $18 million contract.

Hannan will provide the Avs with the type of gritty defensive play on their blueline not seen since Adam Foote played his final season in Colorado in 2003-04.

The Avs know Hannan's style well as an opponent, as he's spent his entire career prior to Sunday with the San Jose Sharks. He's not known for his offensive game, although he does have a big shot from the point, but his physical defensive game will bring a much-needed edge to the Avs blueline.

Most importantly, his leadership could fill a void in the Colorado defense corps that's been missing since Rob Blake left for LA last summer via free agency.

Avs GM Francois Giguere was also reportedly close to signing forward Ryan Smyth but there's been no word for several hours now on the status of this and it's unknown how the Hannan signing might affect those efforts.

This signing also ramps up speculation that San Jose Sharks GM Doug Wilson might try to replace Hannan via free agency, where Sheldon Souray remains the biggest "name" blueliner available in this year's market.