Jack Drury reveals his initial reaction after Colorado Avalanche trade involving $55,500,000 star forward

Speaking on the AltitudeTV broadcast during Sunday's game between the Colorado Avalanche and New York Rangers, Jack Drury talked about the massive trade involving $55.5 million (per Spotrac) forward Mikko Rantanen. Drury scored the first goal in his debut game for Avs at 05:43 of the first period with a tap-in.

Drury shared that he initially laughed when his brother told him but soon realized the trade was real.

"It's been pretty crazy," Drury said. I got a call from my brother last night telling me he thought I got traded. And I thought he was joking, so I laughed initially, and then I kind of figured out, oh, wow, it's actually true. So, pretty crazy.

"Everyone's been super welcoming, obviously, quick turnaround for me and Nechi (Martin Necas). So groups made it really easy on us, and it's been fun to play with these guys tonight. I think everyone's competing hard. Everyone's doing their job, and I think been good effort so far."

Jack also talked about a text he received from his uncle, New York Rangers general manager Chris Drury, after hearing the news.

"He (Chris) sent me (a text)," Jack said. "He said, 'Yeah.' He sent me a nice text. And, you know, he loved his time here. So sent me a nice encouraging text, and obviously see him pretty soon here."

When asked about Necas, Jack praised his talent and work ethic, calling him one of the most skilled players he has ever seen.

"And then Necas I mean, he's so dynamic," Jack said. "I know everyone is used to seeing a dynamic player in McKinnon here, but I think he's gonna shock a lot of people with how much skill he has, he's one of the most talented players I've ever seen in my life, and really high motor high work ethic and I think it's a great fit here."

Avalanche received Jack Drury in a massive trade with Hurricanes and Blackhawks

In the three-team trade, Carolina received Mikko Rantanen and Taylor Hall while Colorado got Jack Drury, Martin Necas and draft picks. Rantanen, who is in the final year of his contract, had 64 points in 49 games for Colorado this season.

Carolina general manager Eric Tulsky expressed excitement about Rantanen joining the team. He believes his skill will fit well with their playing style.

"He's a fantastic fit for the way we play," Tulsky said on Sunday, via NHL.com, "We play a system that has us battling for pucks along the walls and trying to make plays at the net front and he's just one of the best in the League at some of those things."

Drury has four goals and six assists this season, including his first goal for the Avalanche.