Smith, 22, is a pending restricted free agent at the season. He was a seventh round pick (192nd overall) in 2012 and has just one game of NHL experience. He has picked up 13 goals and 21 assists (34 points) in 54 games with San Antonio (AHL) this season. He will report to the AHL’s top team the Toronto Marlies.

The Avs lost John Mitchell and Marc-Andre Cliche over the weekend so they have recalled the 21-year-old centre and he is expected to make his NHL debut tonight vs. Montreal. He has recorded 12 points (4G / 8A) in 18 games with Lake Erie this season. He was the Avs’ 7th round pick (192nd overall) in 2012.