Avalanche did McLeod 'favor' with trade to Nashville

Cody McLeod called his shot.

Shortly after dealing the organization's longest-tenured player to the Nashville Predators in exchange for forward Felix Girard, Colorado Avalanche general manager Joe Sakic said he requested approval from the sandpapered forward first.

"After all the work he's put in for the Avalanche, I asked Cody what he wanted to do. I was going to treat him like basically he had a no-move (clause)," Sakic told Terry Frei of the Denver Post.

"I gave him the opportunity, I told him it was Nashville."

He added, "We moved him as, first of all, a favor to him and (to) give him an opportunity. And he welcomed it. I know it was probably a hard decision for him, but I think hockey-wise, where he is in his career, he wants a chance.

"This is all respect for Cody."

Of course, the move also benefits the Avalanche. It will give them a chance to evaluate forward Matt Nieto, who was picked up on waivers from the San Jose Sharks.

Colorado will also have 60 percent of McLeod's $1.33-million freed up on the payroll next season.