Just a few questions about the 2008/2009 team, since I am still somewhat new to this:

Who's coming back and who's not?
When do contract talks start?
When does training usually start?
What can I look forward to in the offseason?

I am going to miss the Monsters a lot. Knowing a few important dates and facts will help me get through the offseason!

@ the end of training camp the avalanche sit down and decide whos going to make the squad and whoever doesnt will get shipped down to us, just like in baseball.
contract talks not sure but probably after the playoffs are over.
some players will train (supposedly) throughout the summer until they report for training camp usually a couple of months before the season starts again just like baseball spring training
so the offseason is a long one for the teams not in the playoffs.