RSS Avalanche Team Notes

[Colorado Avalanche]

Open Thread: Colorado Avalanche @ Utah Mammoth (7:00 P.M.)

DENVER, COLORADO - DECEMBER 23: Nathan MacKinnon #29 of the Colorado Avalanche faces off against Barrett Hayton #27 of the Utah Mammoth at Ball Arena on December 23, 2025 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Michael Martin/NHLI via Getty Images) | NHLI via Getty Images

The Olympic break is finally over!

After a three week pause for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, the Colorado Avalanche kick off the next phase of their historic 2025 – 2026 campaign for one last(?) visit to Salt Lake City to face the Utah Mammoth.

Colorado Avalanche (37-9-9)​

The Opponent: Utah Mammoth (30-23-4)

Time: 7:00 P.M. MST/9:00 P.M. EST

Watch: ALT, ALT+ (Avalanche Broadcast Area), KUPX-TV (Utah Broadcast Area), ESPN+, NHL Center Ice (Outside Regional Broadcast Areas – US), SN+, NHL Centre Ice (Canadian Broadcast Areas)

Listen: Altitude Sports Radio KKSE-FM 92.5 FM

Colorado Avalanche​

The Avalanche won’t have the luxury of easing their way into the swing of things as the NHL schedule resumes. They play five games in seven days right out of the chute, with four of those games coming in two back-to-back contests. Tonight’s game against Utah marks the first in those pairs of back-to-back games; the Avs will face the Minnesota Wild for the first time on Ball Arena ice on Thursday evening.

The Avs were one of three teams that sent at least eight (8) players to Italy to participate in the Olympic games. Martin Nečas was selected to play for Czechia. Having previously played in the Olympics (Sochi, 2014), Gabe Landeskog made his return to the Olympic stage, now representing Sweden as its team captain. Joel Kiviranta and Artturi Lehkonen were selected to the Finland roster, capturing the bronze medal. Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, and Devon Toews played for Canada, earning the silver medal. Brock Nelson, a third-generation Olympian, captured gold for the United States, adding the fourth Olympic gold medal to his family mantle, joining his grandfather Bill Christian and great uncle Roger Christian (Squaw Valley, 1960) and his uncle Dave Christian (Lake Placid, 1980).

While it will be a welcome sight to see a (relatively) healthy Avalanche lineup for the first time in nearly two months, there will be one notable absence on the roster. On Tuesday morning, the Avalanche announced that they had traded defenseman Sam Girard, along with their second round pick in 2028, to the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for defenseman Brett Kulak. Kulak, 32, was acquired from the Edmonton Oilers in the deal that sent him and goaltender Stuart Skinner to Pittsburgh. During his brief tenure with the Penguins, Kulak scored one goal and added six assists for a total of seven points in twenty-five games. He had two assists in thirty-one games played with Edmonton earlier this season. This is a considerable drop off from his previous season with Edmonton, where he set a career best in goals (7), assists (18), and points (25).

Coach Jared Bednar said this of Kulak: “You’re getting a big, solid D that can skate, and defend real well, and move the puck. He does a lot of good things, a guy that has been to back to back Stanley Cup Finals, and was an integral part of [Edmonton’s] blue line, and what they were trying to do as a team. We like the player a lot, and so, we’re excited.”

He added, “This is a big, strong guy that defends really well. He’s got a ton of experience as well. It’s just a different look for us, right? I think Kulak’s a guy, that depending on how you’re matching up in the playoffs, that he can go up and play with a guy like Cale if I want to move [Toews] against another team’s top line. […] Maybe Kulak can go up and Toews can go down and he can take care of that matchup with a guy like Manson. It gives us flexibility there that I don’t think we necessarily had with [Girard].”

Bednar noted that Kulak, along with most of the Avs roster, would arrive in Salt Lake City on Tuesday night, with some members of the team flying out this morning in order to get some extra rest.

With the NHL season paused through the Olympic break, MacKinnon will look to reclaim the NHL points lead; he trails Olympic teammate Connor McDavid (96) by three points. MacKinnon entered the Olympic break as the NHL’s goal scoring leader (40), the only player in the League to reach this milestone thus far. Nelson is one goal shy of reaching the thirty goal mark for the fourth time in his career. With Mackenzie Blackwood going 1-1 in both games before the break, expect Scott Wedgewood to start in goal this evening. Wedgewood last started on January 29, a 7-3 loss against the Montréal Canadiens at Bell Centre.

The Avs still remain the undisputed leader across the Central Division, Western Conference, and League standings. A win today would give them a seven point cushion over second place Minnesota, and although they still have two games in hand over their division rivals, every point will matter even more as teams jockey for position ahead of the postseason. The Dallas Stars, who have a game in hand on Minnesota and sit one point behind them in the division, host the Seattle Kraken tonight, so one can bet that Minnesota will be keeping a close eye on both games.

The Avs currently lead the season series against Utah, winning two of the three games played. They have yet to win at Delta Center to this point in the season, but won the most recent matchup on December 23, a 1-0 decision.

Projected Lineup​

Forwards:
Artturi Lehkonen – Nathan MacKinnon – Martin Nečas
Gabe Landeskog – Brock Nelson – Valeri Nichushkin
Ross Colton – Jack Drury – Victor Olofsson
Joel Kiviranta – Parker Kelly – Gavin Brindley

Defense:
Devon Toews – Cale Makar
Josh Manson – Brent Burns
Brett Kulak – Sam Malinski

Between the Pipes:
Scott Wedgewood
Mackenzie Wedgewood

Utah Mammoth​

Utah started out 2026 with a bang, going 12-5 since the start of January. They sit in fourth place in the Central Division standings, edging out the Anaheim Ducks by one point for the first wild card spot in the Western Conference. They won two of their previous three contests prior to the start of the Olympic break, a 6-2 defeat of the Vancouver Canucks, and a 4-1 victory over the Detroit Red Wings. Tonight’s game is the third of a five game home stand at Delta Center, where Utah has performed considerably well: they boast a 17-8-2 record on home ice.

Occupying a wild card spot may seem a bit surprising during this sophomore campaign for Utah, but those who followed the former Arizona Coyotes are familiar with this trend. While there have been some changes to the present-day roster, the current version’s performance has echoes of its previous incarnation, being competitive just enough to find themselves on the periphery of the postseason, only to fall short time and again. Utah GM Bill Armstrong, with the backing of his new ownership group in Ryan and Ashley Smith, has infused his team’s roster with some new life, acquiring defenseman Mikhail Sergachev from the Tampa Bay Lightning prior to their inaugural season, and right wing J.J. Peterka from the Buffalo Sabres. Sergachev set a personal best in goals (15) in his first season with Utah and currently leads all defensemen in points (38). Peterka, who signed a five year, $38.5 million dollar extension as part of the trade with Buffalo, is tied with Sergachev in points, and ranks third in goal scoring (20). Armstrong may have a few more moves up his sleeve as the trade deadline approaches, so this could be the year that his squad bucks the trends of the past, which would be an incredible testament to the club’s performance since taking the ice in downtown Salt Lake for the first time last October.

Like Colorado, Utah sent multiple players to Italy to participate in the Olympics. Peterka was selected to the German Olympic roster, defenseman Olli Määttä joined Kiviranta on Finland’s roster, goaltender Karel Vejmelka joined Nečas to represent Czechia’s goaltending contingent, and captain Clayton Keller won gold with the United States alongside Nelson.

Keller leads all skaters in assists (37) and points (54). Dylan Guenther leads all skaters in goals (25), just two shy of his personal best (27). Nick Schmaltz is second in goals (23), equaling his personal best he set during the 2021-2022 season with Arizona. Vejmelka is tied for first place with Tampa’s Andrei Vasilevskiy in goaltender wins (27), a personal best since entering the League with Arizona during the 2021-2022 season.

Tonight’s game wraps up the four game series against Colorado. Utah’s previous victory came on October 21, with Guenther scoring the game winning goal for the 4-3 decision.

Projected Lineup​

Forwards:
Clayton Keller – Nick Schmaltz – Lawson Crouse
J.J. Peterka – Barrett Hayton – Kailer Yamamoto
Michael Carcone – Jack McBain – Dylan Guenther
Brandon Tanev – Kevin Stenlund – Liam O’Brien

Defense:
Mikhail Sergachev – Sean Durzi
Nate Schmidt – John Marino
Ian Cole – Nick DeSimone

Between the Pipes:
Karel Vejmelka
Vitek Vaněček

Follow along in the comments below!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/open...hread-colorado-avalanche-utah-mammoth-700-p-m

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Recap: Avalanche survive with 3-1 win over Blackhawks

DENVER, COLORADO - FEBRUARY 28: Gavin Brindley #54 of the Colorado Avalanche celebrates after a goal against the Chicago Blackhawks. (Photo by Michael Martin/NHLI via Getty Images) | NHLI via Getty Images

In continuation of the Central Division showdowns, the Colorado Avalanche moved on in their busy schedule in hosting the Chicago Blackhawks in a Saturday afternoon affair hoping to erase the bitter taste of defeat from two nights ago. It wasn’t a masterful effort but still Colorado found enough to end up with a 3-1 win over Chicago.

The Game​

It wasn’t the start to the game the Avalanche were hoping for. Devon Toews took a hooking penalty six minutes into the match and Connor Bedard converted for Chicago on the power play for the game’s first score. For the rest of the first period the two teams would trade fruitless power plays while the Avalanche crafted a 14-4 shot advantage.

The second period wasn’t much better and was a slog to get through. Colorado took a too many men penalty early and then Chicago was called for three straight infractions after that. Colorado capitalized on none of them, gaining only a 9-5 shot advantage in the period in the process.

A sign of life, though, emerged after the fourth failed power play of the game for Colorado as Cale Makar found the back of the net with nine seconds left in the period. It wasn’t even a clean pass from MacKinnon as a Blackhawk tipped it on the way to Makar but he was able to find an open look much closer to the net that he has been and fired his favorite shot from the top of the right circle to tie the game 1-1 heading into the second intermission.

A shorthanded 3-on-1 happened early in the final frame but the Avalanche over-passed their way out of it to keep the game tied. Who knew the fourth line would bail out the Avalanche in their third minute of time on ice in the game? That’s exactly what happened midway through the third period to give Colorado their first lead of the contest when Gavin Brindley cleaned up some loose change at the net front.

Nothing else happened in this game except for an empty net goal scored by Makar after just seconds after Nathan MacKinnon and Martin Nečas over-passed themselves into a turnover when they had a chance at securing the victory. A 3-1 Colorado win was recorded after this sloppy game.

Takeaways​

Joel Kiviranta remained absent from this game with Zakhar Bardakov participating in his place. Prior to the game Jared Bednar admitted on the radio that the Finn is going through concussion protocol.

It was nice to see Brindley as the hero of the game but it’s troubling he still ended with 3:26 time on ice and not a second more after he scored the game winning goal. It’s fair to wonder how much of the current bottom six forward group will remain on the roster after the upcoming NHL trade deadline on Friday.

Upcoming​

A busy March schedule kicks off with the first of a back-to-back in California against the LA Kings at 8:30 p.m. MT on Monday, March 2nd.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...valanche-survive-with-3-1-win-over-blackhawks

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

List of 2026 Avalanche ELC Decisions

ST PAUL, MINNESOTA - JANUARY 4: Max Curran #12 of Czechia looks on against Canada in the third period of a semifinal game during the IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship. (Photo by Nick Wosika/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Today is an important day in the prospect development cycle, the day in which future NHL contracts can be signed and registered. This means that organizations can begin to shape their prospect depth charts for the 2026-27 season. Despite the Colorado Avalanche decimating their prospect pipeline year over year there are still a few players relevant to this decision point and could ink a contract in short order.

Who is the top #goavsgo unsigned prospect? (Comment for other)

— Mile High Hockey (@MileHighHockey) February 17, 2026

Max Curran​

The belief is that according to PuckPedia Max Curran’s rights expire on June 1, 2026 as the talented forward was selected in the fifth round out of the WHL in the 2024 NHL draft before the new CBA’s rule changes. He’s enjoyed a good if not great junior career and is ready to take the next step in hockey next fall. This is a contract the Avalanche front office should execute before losing Curran’s rights as they don’t have many prospects to sign, especially up front. The 19-year-old helped his cause with a nice World Juniors performance and was a key player in Czechia’s semi-final defeat of Canada.

GOAL Max Curran scores the equalizer as and are tied 1-1 heading into the second period!

Listen to the #WorldJuniors LIVE https://t.co/iPxs8pzrZf

pic.twitter.com/EMGYFMWy60

— SiriusXM NHL Network Radio (@SiriusXMNHL) January 5, 2026

Complicating matters, though, Curran suffered an upper-body injury in January shortly after his return to the WHL and is currently listed out month-to-month, which calls into question if his season is over. If so, has Curran done enough with 41 points in 31 games to earn a contract from the Avalanche?

Another wrinkle to this story is that on February 3rd it was announced that Curran has committed to UMass for the 2026-27 season. Is this the backup plan if he doesn’t receive an offer from Colorado or does he already know it’s not coming? He is known to be an excellent student and this is an exciting opportunity for him but if Colorado gives up their rights to him, Curran would become a college free agent and free to sign anywhere when he is ready to move on from the NCAA.

Christian Humphreys​

It is going to be very interesting to watch which direction Christian Humphreys goes after his season with the Kitchener Rangers wraps up. The talented forward has enjoyed a very productive 19-year old season in junior with 78 points in 56 games. As he was drafted out of the US NTDP, Humphries’ rights do not expire this summer unlike Curran and therefore several options are open to him.

Now with the NCAA door back open to junior players, Humphreys could return to college instead of turning pro. He played a semester at Michigan in the fall after he was drafted in 2024 but then made the move to the OHL to finish out the season, which was a much better fit for him. Humphreys entered the transfer portal so it’s unlikely he’d return to Michigan but college could be a much more appealing opportunity than heading to the AHL right away. If he’s offered a NHL contract to turn pro those opportunities are tough to turn down, though.

HUMPS FINDS THE BACK OF THE NET WITH THE GOALIE PULLED #RTown | #BattleBuilt | #GoAvsGo https://t.co/b1Z21v3b0v pic.twitter.com/zbbr4Fn2rz

— Kitchener Rangers (@OHLRangers) January 3, 2026

Mikhail Gulyayev​

As always, contract decisions on Russians are a bit delayed as their playing season extends through the spring and after a recent change KHL contracts now don’t expire until June 1st. So, don’t expect any news right as the March 1st window opens but there’s realistic possibility that Mikhail Gulyayev signs an ELC sometime this spring and begins his North American career in the 2026-27 season. After a tough season with a marginalized role, playing forward at times and then a month’s absence due to a facial injury it is time for a chance of scenery for the talented defenseman. The 20-year-old has scored just three points in 46 games this year and needs to get his offensive game back on track with a new opportunity that’s hopefully on the horizon.

HATTY WATCH

Here's a look at #GoAvsGo prospect Mikhail Gulyayev's second goal of the game #KHLpreseason #BlinovCup

Video courtesy of HC Avangard pic.twitter.com/CSdzd60F0l

— Hockey News Hub (@HockeyNewsHub) August 24, 2025

Francesco Dell’Elce​

The Avalanche don’t have any graduating seniors currently in the NCAA but as always they could sign a few players early out of college if they are deemed ready to turn pro. Most notably is defenseman Francesco Dell’Elce who has enjoyed another productive year at UMass. As a 20-year old sophomore he scored 21 points n 31 games and should set a career high in production this season. It should be no secret that Dell’Elce profiles similarly to a left handed Sam Malinski, and the Avalanche do have a type, so another year or two of college development before signing a NHL contract wouldn’t be a bad plan of action but it’s not out of the question he signs after this year.

The overtime game winner

Francesco Dell’Elce’s OT goal is the @IsenbergUMass Impact Play of the Game from @UMassHockey’s Saturday night win #Flagship pic.twitter.com/ZTZY1Cc5uU

— UMass Athletics (@UMassAthletics) October 21, 2025

What are your predictions on who signs with the Avalanche? Who do you consider Colorado’s top unsigned prospect?

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/prospects-in-the-pipeline/60999/list-of-2026-avalanche-elc-decisions

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Open Thread: Chicago Blackhawks @ Colorado Avalanche (4:00 P.M.)

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - NOVEMBER 23: Linesperson CJ Murray #68 drops the puck for a face-off between the Colorado Avalanche and the Chicago Blackhawks in the second period at the United Center on November 23, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Bill Smith/NHLI via Getty Images) | NHLI via Getty Images

With two of five games in a seven day stretch now behind them, it’s safe to assume that the Colorado Avalanche were looking forward to the weekend.

This afternoon, the visiting Chicago Blackhawks will make their only regular season appearance in Denver, as the Avs face their third consecutive Central Division opponent in four days.

Colorado Avalanche (38-10-9)​

The Opponent: Chicago Blackhawks (22-27-9)

Time: 4:00 P.M. MST/6:00 P.M. EST

Watch: ALT, ALT+ (Avalanche Broadcast Area), CHSN (Blackhawks Broadcast Area), ESPN+, NHL Center Ice (Outside Regional Broadcast Areas – US), SN+, NHL Centre Ice (Canadian Broadcast Areas)

Listen: Altitude Sports Radio KKSE-FM 92.5 FM

Colorado Avalanche​

The Avalanche currently sport a .500 record for the month of February, going 2-2 in that time frame. This would sound a lot more alarming if it weren’t for the extended Olympic pause that led to playing only four games through the month. A victory today would keep them from posting their second consecutive sub-500 month of hockey, and would certainly provide a lift after losing 5-2 to the visiting Minnesota Wild this past Thursday. Mackenzie Blackwood stopped 31 of 34 shots in a contest that featured an impressive goalie duel between him and Filip Gustavsson—who stopped 45 of 47 shots in his own right—only to be overshadowed by questionable judgement (see Brent Burns launching the puck into the crowd during an Avalanche penalty kill that was already down not one, but two skaters) and officiating (poke checks are penalties now?).

Coach Jared Bednar lamented his team’s inability to widen the gap on both Minnesota and the idle Dallas Stars. “It’s the standings at the end of the year is what matters, right? So, that [game] was a missed opportunity; that’s what that was. Nine points if we win, two games in hand, that’s a long road to try and catch you, and now it’s tight. Five [points] with two [games] in hand, and there’s lots of hockey to be played. We’ve just got to take care of our business.”

The loss allowed Minnesota—playing in a first game of a back to back pair of their own—to leapfrog over Dallas to second place in the Central Division, closing to within five points of the Avs. However, just like the Avs, Minnesota failed to seize the moment in their second half of back to back games, as they lost to the Utah Mammoth by a score of 5-2 at Delta Center on Friday evening. The loss prevented them from closing to within three points of the Avalanche, who can now restore their seven point cushion with a win this afternoon.

Hockey giveth, and hockey taketh away.

Nathan MacKinnon returned to the lineup against Minnesota for the first time since returning from the Olympics, and while he did not add to his NHL goal scoring total—he remains at a League best 40 goals—he did reach the 95 point plateau (Edmonton’s Connor McDavid leads all skaters with 100 points). Martin Nečas, who scored his 24th and 25th goals of the season on Thursday evening, trails Brock Nelson (30) for third place in team scoring, and is three goals shy of tying his career high (28). While the loss to Minnesota may look lopsided by box score alone, Blackwood’s play to keep his team close for the majority of the contest ought to merit a return to the crease today.

The Avs still remain the undisputed leader across the Central Division, Western Conference, and League standings. Coming into this afternoon’s game, they have a game in hand on Dallas (who will be in action at American Airlines Center tonight against the Nashville Predators), and three games in hand on Minnesota.

Today’s game is the second in the three game series with Chicago. The Avs won the previous matchup on November 23, a 1-0 decision.

Projected Lineup​

Forwards:
Gabe Landeskog – Nathan MacKinnon – Martin Nečas
Artturi Lehkonen – Brock Nelson – Valeri Nichushkin
Ross Colton – Jack Drury – Victor Olofsson
Joel Kiviranta* – Parker Kelly – Gavin Brindley

Defense:
Devon Toews – Cale Makar
Josh Manson – Brent Burns
Brett Kulak – Sam Malinski

Between the Pipes:
Mackenzie Blackwood
Scott Wedgewood

Kiviranta, who was injured during the second period after taking a hit from Minnesota’s Zach Bogosian, is uncertain for today’s game at the time of this writing.

Chicago Blackhawks​

Chicago had a great start to 2026, winning five of their first six games in January. However, they followed up that effort by losing nine of their next twelve games prior to the Olympic break. Currently occupying seventh place in the Central Division standings with 53 points, they remain two points ahead of last place St. Louis (51). They kicked off a five game road trip prior to the Olympics, with their most recent effort being a 4-2 loss to the Nashville Predators at Bridgestone Arena on Thursday evening.

Like Colorado, Chicago also had representation in Italy at the Olympics, but to a significantly smaller scale. Center Teuvo Teravainen won the bronze medal alongside Kiviranta as a member of Finland’s roster. The notable absence is center Connor Bedard, who was not invited to participate as a member of Canada’s Olympic roster. Bedard, who scored his twenty-fourth goal of the season against Nashville on Thursday night, currently leads all Chicago skaters in assists (30) and points (54), and ranks second to left wing Tyler Bertuzzi in goals (26).

While Bedard’s solid sophomore campaign led many to believe that he was on the short list to be selected to the Olympics by Hockey Canada, he was ultimately left off the roster once the final selections were announced. Bedard missed twelve games with an upper body injury sustained in a literal last second face-off sequence against St. Louis Blues captain Brayden Schenn back in December, leading many to speculate if the injury was a key factor in leaving Bedard off the Canadian Olympic roster.

Goaltender Spencer Knight is three wins away from tying his career high (19) in his first full season with Chicago. He will likely start today against Colorado. Despite leading all Chicago goaltenders in wins (Arvid Soderblom has five wins on the season and Drew Commesso has one), Chicago has given up more than two goals in fourteen of ninteen games played in since the start of the New Year. That has contributed to the third worst goal differential (-33) in the NHL; only St. Louis (-52) and Vancouver (-62) rank lower.

Today’s match-up against Colorado marks their only regular season visit to Denver, and marks the first game of a back to back weekend. They will finish the weekend in—where else?—Salt Lake City against the Mammoth on Sunday afternoon. The season series against Colorado will conclude on home ice at United Center on March 20.

Projected Lineup​

Forwards:
Ryan Greene – Connor Bedard – Andre Burakovsky
Oliver Moore – Frank Nazar – Tyler Bertuzzi
Ryan Donato – Jason Dickinson – Ilya Mikheyev
Teuvo Teravainen – Nick Foligno – Landon Slaggert

Defense:
Alex Vlasic – Louis Crevier
Connor Murphy – Sam Rinzel
Matt Grzelcyk – Artyom Levshunov

Between the Pipes:
Spencer Knight
Arvid Söderblom

Follow along in the comments below!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/open...chicago-blackhawks-colorado-avalanche-400-p-m

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Preview: Avs start road trip with late-night look at LA Kings

The Colorado Avalanche look to complete a season sweep over the Los Angeles Kings tonight at Ball Arena in Denver. The Kings have struggled with a persistent lack of scoring, prompting their acquisition of Artemi Panarin earlier this season.

Unfortunately, the move hasn’t delivered the offensive spark they expected, contributing to the firing of head coach Jim Hiller on March 1.

D.J. Smith has been elevated to interim head coach as the team searches for a jolt.

Meanwhile, the Avalanche continue to rack up wins despite an inconsistent power play and occasional overhandling of the puck. Will it be the desperate Kings that come out on top, or are the Avalanche just too good?

All the things pic.twitter.com/51Knz07G9N

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) March 2, 2026

Colorado Avalanche: 39-10-9​

The Opponent: LA Kings (24-21-14)

Time: 8:30 p.m. MT

Watch: Altitude, Altitude+, ESPN+

Listen: Altitude Sports Radio, 92.5 FM

Colorado Avalanche​

Those fans who constantly yell ‘Shoot!’ whenever the Avalanche hold the puck in the offensive zone for too long usually annoy me—but right now, they’re validated. In their last outing against the Blackhawks, Colorado passed up way too many prime scoring chances, allowing a rebuilding Chicago team to stick around in a game they had no business being competitive in. Let’s see if the Avs can buck that trend tonight.

Nothing has been written or talked about more in Colorado than their power play, which continues to struggle mightily at generating dangerous looks and seems all too content with perimeter point shots from Cale Makar and cross-ice one-timers. The lack of creativity comes off as stubborn and entitled at this point. That mindset has to change—and soon—if they’re going to make a deep playoff run.

Lots of frustrations around the power play, but Martin Necas gave a lot of praise to Cale Makar and the way the man-advantage worked today:

"We just got to stick with it, and I'm sure it's going to come."

Martin Necas | Full postgame presser pic.twitter.com/UF7s0mWCMK

— DNVR Avalanche (@DNVR_Avalanche) March 1, 2026

Projected Lineup:​

Artturi Lehkonen — Nathan MacKinnon — Valeri Nichushkin
Gabriel Landeskog — Brock Nelson — Martin Necas
Ross Colton — Jack Drury — Victor Olofsson
Joel Kiviranta — Parker Kelly — Gavin Brindley

Devon Toews — Cale Makar
Josh Manson — Brent Burns
Brett Kulak — Sam Malinski

Scott Wedgewood
MacKenzie Blackwood

Los Angeles Kings​

Anze Kopitar has been vocal lately, telling media ‘we need to be better’ amid the Kings’ ongoing struggles, but many LA fans are simply pleading for the team to open things up offensively. Their heavy emphasis on checking, structure, and back-end play has seemingly drained the life from the attack, contributing to persistent scoring woes despite additions like Artemi Panarin.

Artemi Panarin. Los Angeles King. pic.twitter.com/e3B82EWuJi

— LA Kings (@LAKings) February 24, 2026

With D.J. Smith stepping in as interim head coach after Jim Hiller’s firing, expect a potential shift—Smith’s energetic, confidence-focused style could encourage a riskier, more open brand of hockey than the cautious approach seen in the first two meetings this season against Colorado.

Keep an eye on defenseman Brandt Clarke, who’s deployed a classic pest strategy in those prior matchups—cross-checking, agitating, and getting under the Avs’ skin. As the rubber match in this season series (with the sweep on the line), things could get chippy, and we might see some fisticuffs to settle the bad blood.

Projected Lineup:​

Artemi Panarin — Anze Kopitar — Adrian Kempe
Trevor Moore — Quinton Byfield — Alex Laferriere
Warren Foegele — Alex Turcotte — Corey Perry
Jeff Malott — Samuel Helenius — Taylor Ward

Joel Edmundson — Brandt Clarke
Mikey Anderson — Cody Ceci
Jacob Moverare — Brian Dumoulin

Anton Forsberg
Darcy Kuemper

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...rt-road-trip-with-late-night-look-at-la-kings

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Recap: Kings no match for Colorado as Avalanche win 4-2

Mar 2, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Colorado Avalanche center Martin Necas (88) celebrates with center Nathan MacKinnon (29) after scoring a goal. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The Colorado Avalanche secured a milestone victory on Monday night, defeating the Los Angeles Kings 4–2 at Crypto.com Arena to capture the franchise’s 1,750th regular-season win.

A late third-period goal from defenseman Devon Toews proved to be the difference, while Martin Nečas delivered a dominant three-point performance (one goal, two assists). Nathan MacKinnon and Gabriel Landeskog each contributed a goal and an assist as Colorado improved to 40-10-9 on the season. In net, Mackenzie Blackwood turned aside 19 of 21 shots to anchor the win.

What Happened

Colorado established control early.

MacKinnon opened the scoring just 4:27 into the first period, wiring a one-timer from the slot off a rush chance created by Nečas. The goal — his 41st of the season — extended his torrid offensive pace and immediately quieted the home crowd.

The Avalanche doubled their advantage at 10:13 of the opening frame. Landeskog buried a one-timer from the high slot for his eighth of the year after a crisp setup from defenseman Brent Burns, showcasing Colorado’s sharp puck movement through the neutral zone.

It looked like the visitors were going to cruise to an easy win but Los Angeles responded late in the period. Brandt Clarke cut the deficit to 2–1 with a power-play blast from the point at 17:20, beating Blackwood through traffic.

To begin the second period Martin Nečas had a goal wiped off the board due to a quick whistle. Kings goaltender Anton Forsberg didn’t have the puck secured and dropped it in the crease. But the officials deemed it no goal and play moved on.

The Kings carried that momentum of good fortune and evened the game at 8:32 when Angus Booth redirected a feed at the left doorstep, tying the contest at 2–2.

The game remained tightly contested until the closing minutes of regulation.

With 4:55 remaining in the third period, Toews broke the deadlock on his second goal of the season. MacKinnon controlled the puck high in the zone, skating from the point toward the right circle before threading a cross-ice pass into the slot. Toews stepped into the feed and snapped home his second goal of the season, restoring Colorado’s lead at 3–2.

Nečas sealed the victory in dramatic fashion at 19:59, scoring into an empty net on the power play for his 26th goal of the year to secure the 4–2 final.

Colorado now turns its focus toward sustaining momentum as the regular season enters its decisive stretch. Unfortunately they lost the services of Artturi Lehkonen early in the first period to an upper-body injury and Jared Bednar stated postgame that the Finnish winger will miss some time.

Upcoming

It’s a quick turn around as the Avalanche continue their road trip Tuesday night against the Anaheim Ducks, with puck drop scheduled for 8 p.m. MT. The game will be broadcast on Altitude, Altitude+, and Altitude Sports Radio 92.5 FM.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...gs-no-match-for-colorado-as-avalanche-win-4-2

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Open Thread: Colorado Avalanche vs. Anaheim Ducks (8:00 p.m. MT)

DENVER, COLORADO - NOVEMBER 11: Gabriel Landeskog #92 of the Colorado Avalanche passes the puck against the Anaheim Ducks. (Photo by C. Morgan Engel/Getty Images) | Getty Images

After winning 4-2 against the Los Angeles Kings yesterday, courtesy of a late third-period go-ahead goal from Devon Toews, the Colorado Avalanche are back at it again tonight as they take on the Anaheim Ducks on the second leg of a back-to-back. This will be the third and final regular-season game between these two teams.

Colorado Avalanche (40-10-9)​

Colorado kicked off their second back-to-back in about a week against the Kings yesterday. Colorado managed to build a two-goal lead early in the first period, but LA was able to come back and ultimately tie the game at 2-2. Devon Toews would be the one to give the Avs the lead back late in the third period, off a beautiful pass from Nathan MacKinnon to set him up. The other big piece of news during the game last night was, of course, Artturi Lehkonen going out during the game. He won’t be playing tonight in Anaheim and is going to miss some time.

Artturi Lehkonen will not play tomorrow in Anaheim. Bednar says he’s going to miss some time.

— Evan Rawal (@evanrawal.bsky.social) 2026-03-03T06:28:27.323Z

Projected Lineup​

Gabriel Landeskog – Nathan MacKinnon – Martin Necas
Parker Kelly – Brock Nelson – Valeri Nichushkin
Ross Colton – Jack Drury – Victor Olofsson
Jason Polin – Bardakov – Gavin Brindley

Devon Toews – Cale Makar
Josh Manson – Brent Burns
Brett Kulak – Sam Malinski

Scott Wedgewood
Mackenzie Blackwood

Anaheim Ducks (33-23-3)​

The Ducks come into this game off a 3-2 shootout win over the Calgary Flames on Sunday, and are currently locked in a battle for the top spot in the Pacific Division, sitting just one point behind the Vegas Golden Knights for that spot. The Ducks are an incredibly fun and talented team, with a phenomenal goaltender in Lukas Dostal. They’ve shown that they can certainly be competitive, as they’re competing for the top spot in the Pacific, and every point matters to this team at this point. Colorado is perfectly capable of beating this team, but it’ll certainly be easier said than done.

Projected Lineup​

Chris Kreider – Leo Carlsson – Cutter Gauthier
Jeffrey Viel – Mason McTavish – Beckett Sennecke
Alex Killorn – Ryan Poehling – Jansen Harkins
Ross Johnston – Tim Washe – Ian Moore

Jackson LaCombe – Jacob Trouba
Olen Zellweger – Radko Gudas
Pavel Mintyukov – Drew Helleson

Lukas Dostal
Ville Husso

Follow along in the comments below!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/open...olorado-avalanche-vs-anaheim-ducks-800-p-m-mt

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Recap: Avalanche clip Ducks 5-1

Mar 3, 2026; Anaheim, California, USA; Colorado Avalanche center Martin Necas (88) moves the puck againt Anaheim Ducks center Jansen Harkins (24). Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images | Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Late Tuesday night the Colorado Avalanche completed a successful Southern California back-to-back in their 5-1 disposal of the Anaheim Ducks. It capped off a stretch of five games in seven nights following the Olympic break and the Avalanche now get two days of rest before the trade deadline.

The Game

Colorado got the scoring going early and often with Cale Makar landing on the scoresheet first in this contest. The opening period also saw a new trick in the Avalanche arsenal — a power play goal. Utilizing the brilliant idea of having Martin Nečas take the one-timer from the left side worked again as the Avalanche entered the first intermission with a 2-0 lead.

A bit of drama in this game came from the Ducks early in the second period when Cutter Gauthier took advantage of a scramble in the Avalanche zone to cut the lead. By the end of the period, however, order would be restored on the first of two Parker Kelly goals on the night and a 3-1 Avalanche lead at the second intermission.

The third period was largely academic as the Avalanche were not going to give up their lead. Gabe Landeskog overachieved by finding the back of the net on a great feed from Nathan MacKinnon for the latter’s 100th point on the season. Parker Kelly added another insurance goal at the midpoint and Colorado secured the 5-1 victory.

Takeaways

It was announced prior to the game that Artturi Lehkonen is out week-to-week with the upper-body injury suffered in Los Angeles. In his place Jason Polin was recalled from the Colorado Eagles and played eight minutes on the fourth line.

Now the focus turns to the upcoming trade deadline before the team’s next game. How many players have played their last game in an Avalanche uniform?

Upcoming

Another important Central Division game in a showdown with the Dallas Stars on Friday, March 6th. Puck drop is at 6:00 p.m. MT in the Lone Star State.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colorado-avalanche-game-coverage/62298/recap-avalanche-clip-ducks-5-1

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Mile High Pollster: Will MacFarland pull off a Kadri reunion?

Well, folks, it’s that time of the year again! Teams and their management groups are working with player reps and other teams to make the final moves ahead of Friday’s 3 p.m. ET NHL trade deadline, and with that in mind, we need to look at things from the Colorado Avalanche perspective and ask the more pressing questions. We sent out a thread on Monday and a few other polls beforehand to get a feel for how fans see things heading in!

Forward Needs​

Settle up front or risk regret: The Avalanche’s cap windfall from the Girard-Kulak deal (~$8-10M space unlocked) has turned dream scenarios into deadline realities, especially for former stars Nazem Kadri and Ryan O’Reilly.

Kadri reunion buzz is real—talks heating up, Avs scouting him in person, and his competitive edge fits perfectly despite the term. O’Reilly offers the smarter cap play: a cheaper, shorter deal with the same two-way excellence and familiarity. Both could slot into the middle six, upgrade faceoffs, secondary scoring, and matchup toughness.

With the window wide open, passing on a big forward splash would sting more than the cost—Kadri or O’Reilly could be the piece that makes Colorado the undeniable Cup favorites.

Who would you prefer the Avs acquire up front? #GoAvsGo

— Mile High Hockey (@MileHighHockey) March 2, 2026

Defensive Needs​

Brett Kulak’s addition brings veteran, playoff-proven stability to the blue line, but the straight swap of rostered defensemen (Girard) means Colorado still has room—and incentive—to add another depth piece for the playoff grind.

Jared Bednar has repeatedly emphasized size and a stay-at-home mentality to complement the group’s puck-moving stars. Mario Ferraro (longtime link, Makar’s college teammate) checks boxes as a reliable LHD, while big-bodied vets like Tyler Myers (recent rumors swirling) and Brenden Dillon offer the grit and shutdown presence Bednar covets. With ~$9M cap space post-trade, is one more defensive reinforcement on the table, or does Kulak sufficiently round out the pairings?

Who would you prefer the Avs acquire on the back-end?

— Mile High Hockey (@MileHighHockey) March 2, 2026

Pass or Fail​

If Colorado fails to land a legitimate third-line center—someone who boosts faceoffs, PK reliability, and secondary scoring—should that be viewed as an outright failure? A depth defender would be nice insurance, but is it essential after Kulak’s addition?

If the Avalanche do not trade for another center, should that be considered a failure? #GoAvsGo

— Mile High Hockey (@MileHighHockey) March 2, 2026

If the Avalanche do not trade for or acquire another depth defender, should that be considered a failure? #GoAvsGo

— Mile High Hockey (@MileHighHockey) March 2, 2026

Futures​

The Avalanche are firmly in win-now mode—another Cup push is the mandate, and that usually means leveraging draft picks and prospects for proven roster talent at the deadline. Recent moves like the Girard-Kulak swap freed cap space for exactly that.

But with their prospect pool already among the league’s thinnest (ranked near the bottom after years of contender trades), should Colorado also look to acquire futures—whether low-cost prospects in multi-asset deals, retained picks, or even salary dumps—to avoid leaving the cupboard completely bare post-Makar extension?

Should the Avalanche be acquiring futures (picks & prospects) at the deadline? #GoAvsGo

— Mile High Hockey (@MileHighHockey) March 2, 2026

Cale Cuffs​

Cale Makar becomes extension-eligible July 1, 2026, setting up what could be a franchise-altering (and cap-crushing) deal. With his next contract shrouded in mystery—and likely to command top-tier money—does this force the Avalanche into a rentals-only approach at the deadline, avoiding anything with term that could complicate re-signing their superstar blueliner?

Does the pending Cale Makar contract keep #Avs from acquiring long-term talent?

— Mile High Hockey (@MileHighHockey) March 2, 2026

Who Sticks?​

Gavin Brindley buried the game-winning goal against the Chicago Blackhawks last week—snapping a months-long drought and earning First Star honors. But is this budding “Kid Clutch” raising his trade value at the deadline, or giving the Avalanche even more reason to lock him in as the young part of their core?

Which #GoAvsGo depth forward has the best chance of staying on the roster past the trade deadline?

— Mile High Hockey (@MileHighHockey) March 1, 2026

Let us know what your poll answers were in the comments!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/mhh-...ster-will-macfarland-pull-off-a-kadri-reunion

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Colorado Eagles three stars from February

Jason Polin, 14, of the Colorado Eagles scores against the CV Firebirds at Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert, Calif., Nov. 1, 2025. | Jay Calderon/The Desert Sun / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The shortest month of the year saw a brief pause for the AHL All-Star festivities in which Colorado Eagles captain Jayson Megna took home MVP honors for scoring seven points in the All-Star game.

For the Eagles, they played a much calmer schedule than the previous month and hosted six of the nine games at home where they achieved a record of 3-3-3 in those contests.

To conclude the month of February, the Eagles found themselves at second place in the Pacific Division standings with a record of 31-13-7. They trailed the Ontario Reign for the division lead by just three points with games in hand setting up an interesting final months of play ahead.

First Star – F Jason Polin – 39 GP: 9G, 11A, 20P​

Seven points in a month is mind-blowing status for an Avalanche prospect in the AHL and it’s no surprise the front office agreed with our assessment and called Jason Polin up for the game in Anaheim. The 26-year-old has battled injuries again this season but has had a strong game since the calendar flipped to 2026, which has given Polin more NHL opportunity before his contract expires this summer making him an unrestricted free agent.

MINUTE OF MADNESS! Jason Polin finishes on the secondary chance to put the Eagles ahead early in the 3rd! Wyatt Aamodt (18), Ivan Ivan (9) on the helpers #Avs #GoAvsGo #EaglesCountry @HockeyMtnHighCO pic.twitter.com/RODgKkH9If

— Brennan Vogt (@brennan_vogt) February 22, 2026

Second Star – F Ivan Ivan – 49 GP: 5G, 11A, 16P​

Miraculously, Ivan Ivan is the one Colorado Eagle forward who can stay healthy and in the lineup and he takes home second star honors with a a strong performance. All it took was for veteran center TJ Tynan to get out of the lineup for Ivan Ivan to take his spot as second line center and have a three-point night including this goal. Will Ivan remain in the organization past the trade deadline? Time will tell.

IVAN IVAN gets the Eagles up by TWO! He Nails the top corner with the help from Alex Barré-Boulet (34) #Avs #GoAvsGo #EaglesCountry @HockeyMtnHighCO pic.twitter.com/rGGgIJ6YsZ

— Brennan Vogt (@brennan_vogt) February 22, 2026

Third Star – D Sean Behrens – 38GP: 2G, 14A, 16P​

Similar to last month’s third star, Maros Jedlicka, defenseman Sean Behrens has made the most of his limited opportunities. It’s been a tough year for the left hander after missing all of last season recovering from a major injury and then hasn’t dressed in every Eagles game. Some absences were due to minor injuries but also he has been healthy scratched given the crowded blue line especially with veteran Jacob MacDonald now back in action. This month Behrens crafted a three-game point streak with a goal and two assists, but then was scratched the next game. The clock is ticking for the soon to be 23-year-old as he hopes to build on his 16 points in 38 game stat line, but three points in a month helps.

Tristan Nielsen put on some heavy pressure and SEAN BEHRENS took advantage with a great looking snapper for his second of the season. Jason Polin (10) on the assist #Avs #GoAvsGo #EaglesCountry @HockeyMtnHighCO pic.twitter.com/LkmyhCj4wF

— Brennan Vogt (@brennan_vogt) February 25, 2026

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/ahl-...880/colorado-eagles-three-stars-from-february

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Open Thread: Trade Deadline Frenzy 2026

DENVER, COLORADO - FEBRUARY 04: Members of the Colorado Avalanche are honored as Olympians. (Photo by Michael Martin/NHLI via Getty Images) | NHLI via Getty Images

Here we are at the home stretch just 24 hours to go before the March 6th NHL trade deadline at 1 p.m. MT. It’s been a quick turn around since the Olympic break but the league remained fairly quiet until late this week as the deadline is fast approaching. Will the tight standings and new playoff salary cap rules dampen the frenzy?

New NHL TRADE BOARD from @MLarkinHockey:

The latest update of the list, tiered by trade likelihood, three days before the Trade Deadlinehttps://t.co/hUSjTXouTW

— Daily Faceoff (@DailyFaceoff) March 3, 2026

Of course all eyes are on the Colorado Avalanche and what the league’s top team has up their sleeve. After moving out longtime defenseman Sam Girard for cap space last week and making some depth a questions with Nick Blankenburg and Nic Roy, the other shoe must drop as we see what else Avalanche GM Chris MacFarland has in mind. We do have a pretty good idea what he will say with our Bingo Card 4.0, though.

How many trades will the Avalanche make? Who will be the biggest name moved in the NHL? Which veterans will come to Colorado? Let us know in the comments and follow along with the frenzy!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/open-threads/62125/open-thread-trade-deadline-frenzy-2026

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Breaking: Avalanche trade first round pick for Nicolas Roy

TORONTO, CANADA - MARCH 2: Nicolas Roy #55 of the Toronto Maple Leafs looks on during player introductions. (Photo by Mark Blinch/NHLI via Getty Images) | NHLI via Getty Images

Today the Colorado Avalanche continued to reshape their roster for the stretch run and acquired their first new forward in right shot center Nicolas Roy from the Toronto Maple Leafs.

We have acquired forward Nicolas Roy from the Toronto Maple Leafs in exchange for a conditional first-round draft pick in 2027 and a conditional fifth-round draft pick in 2026.

Welcome to Colorado, Nicolas! pic.twitter.com/cd0xIQgno3

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) March 5, 2026

The 29-year-old is a good fit for Colorado’s bottom six forward group as he possesses size at 6-foot-four and 201 lbs and is known for his two-way play and face-off ability. The former fourth round pick of the Carolina Hurricanes has scored 20 points in 59 games with Toronto this season after he was acquired in the Mitch Marner trade.

Roy was a member of Vegas Golden Knights when they won the Stanley Cup in 2023 and it’s clear Chris MacFarland is targeting players with long playoff histories. He is signed through next season at $3M, which is how they’ve justified the steep price of a 2027 first round pick, with reports the condition it that the pick is top 10 protected, and the lowest of Colorado’s 2026 fifth round picks.

How many more trades will the Avalanche make? Do they have a big move yet to come or are they satisfied with depth additions?

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/nhl-...lanche-trade-first-round-pick-for-nicolas-roy

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Open Thread: Colorado Avalanche at Dallas Stars (6:00 p.m.)

DENVER, COLORADO - MAY 1: Gabriel Landeskog #92 of the Colorado Avalanche and Mason Marchment #27 of the Dallas Stars. Photo by Michael Martin/NHLI via Getty Images) | NHLI via Getty Images

The trade deadline frenzy isn’t the only hockey-related thing happening today! In fact, the Colorado Avalanche and Central Division rival Dallas Stars are set to face eachother for the first time since October 11, 2025. It feels like it’s been that long, and although there’s probably not much to take away from a game last calendar year, Dallas did win 5-4 in a SO.

Colorado Avalanche: (39-10-9)​

The Opponent: Dallas Stars (38-14-9)

Time: 6:00 p.m. MT

Watch: Altitude, Altitude+, ESPN+

Listen: Altitude Sports Radio, 92.5 FM

Colorado Avalanche​

The Avalanche have some work left to do at the deadline (potentially), but have already done a bit by adding Nick Blankenburg from the Nashville Predators and Nicolas Roy from Toronto. Roy was seen skating with the team this morning, so he will likely make his debut wearing the number ten jersey.

The Avalanche have quietly won three games in a row and look to extend that in a massively important divisional matchup. Colorado has dominated the top spot in the Central, but both Dallas and Minnesota have been able to just about keep pace, lying in wait for the Avalanche to drop a few.

Projected Lineup:​

Gabriel Landeskog — Nathan MacKinnon — Martin Necas
Ross Colton — Brock Nelson — Valeri Nichushkin
Parker Kelly — Jack Drury — Joel Kiviranta
Zakhar Bardakov — Nicolas Roy — Gavin Brindley

Devon Toews — Cale Makar
Josh Manson — Brent Burns
Brett Kulak — Sam Malinski

MacKenzie Blackwood
Scott Wedgewood

Dallas Stars​

The Stars are keeping right up with solid play despite not having Mikko Rantanen since the Olympic break. Most thought that loss would hit them hard, but old friend Matt Duchene and Sam Steele have supplemented his scoring and are leading the way right now.

New faces in the Victory Green ️ pic.twitter.com/IE1cqQey6z

— Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) March 6, 2026

Dallas’ netminder Jake Oettinger seems to rise to the occasion when matched up with Colorado, contrary to what we see from other netminders. Oettinger may have been pulled last postseason, but he was probably Dallas’ best player throughout the Dallas vs. Colorado series.

Projected Lineup:​

Jason Robertson — Roope Hintz — Wyatt Johnston
Sam Steel — Matt Duchene — Jamie Benn
Adam Erne — Justin Hryckowian — Mavrik Bourque
Colin Blackwell — Oskar Back — Nathan Bastian

Esa Lindell — Miro Heiskanen
Thomas Harley — Nils Lundkvist
Lian Bichsel — Ilya Lyubushkin

Jake Oettinger
Casey DeSmith

Follow along in the comments below!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/open...ad-colorado-avalanche-at-dallas-stars-600-p-m

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Recap: Avs edge Stars 5-4 in a shootout

Mar 6, 2026; Dallas, Texas, USA; Colorado Avalanche center Martin Necas (88) scores the game winning goal against Dallas Stars goaltender Jake Oettinger (29) during the overtime shootout period at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images | Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Following a monumental trade deadline which saw the return of Nazem Kadri, the Colorado Avalanche still had a game to play. One of the most important Central Division games was on tap this Friday evening in Dallas against the Stars. Ultimately the Avalanche would win 5-4 in a shootout after numerous last second goals in a comeback affair.

The Game

After a whirlwind of a day, the evening matchup between the league’s two best teams didn’t disappoint. At first the Avalanche got on the board with a Cale Makar power play goal but the lead didn’t last long as Miro Heiskanen got Dallas their own score on the man advantage.

From there the Stars proceeded to add to their lead. First from Wyatt Johnston who walk around the defense and picked a corner on Mackenzie Blackwood. It would be the Colorado goaltender who misplayed the puck behind the net which allowed the Dallas fourth line in Justin Hryckowian to take advantage and put the Stars up by two.

The first period wasn’t over yet, however, as the Avalanche got one last power play opportunity and Nathan MacKinnon put the puck past Jake Oettinger with one second left on the clock to cut the Dallas lead to 3-2 by the end of the first 20 minutes of play.

That momentum didn’t carry on for Colorado as Dallas struck first in the middle frame. Josh Manson lost a board battle and Jamie Benn was left alone in front to put Dallas up 4-2. That was the end of Blackwood’s night as Scott Wedgewood took the crease in relief.

Colorado still wouldn’t give up, though, and Martin Nečas cut the Stars’ lead in half again. That’s how the second period would conclude with the Stars holding a 4-3 advantage heading into the final frame.

A big moment happened midway through the third period as the Avalanche killed off a Stars 5-on-3. Another missed opportunity for Dallas was when Benn could have sealed the game but missed the cage on an empty net shot. The Avalanche had new life and naturally tied the game with 13 seconds left from none other than Val Nichushkin. With a 4-4 tie the game headed to overtime.

Despite the Avalanche having a few early good looks it was the Stars who held much of the possession in the extra frame. But still, nobody could get a puck past Wedgewood. And a shootout was needed to decide this game.

Colorado went with the hot hand in Nichushkin and it paid off as he used his long reach to poke the puck past Oettinger. Nečas took that inspiration and netted a goal doing the same. Wedgewood stopped both shots he faced and the Avalanche walked away with a 5-4 victory.

Takeaways

Colorado clearly wants to give Blackwood the net but Wedgewood has stepped up time and time again, this time not allowing a single goal, including in the shootout, if relief. He more than earned this win, his 23rd on the season. It might make sense to keep an open mind on a goalie rotation in the playoffs since that’s what’s worked for the Avalanche thus far.

Upcoming

Another big game in a rematch with the Minnesota Wild in a matinee affair at 12 p.m. MT on Sunday, March 8th nationally televised on TNT. Perhaps the return debut of Nazem Kadri on national television?

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo.../62295/recap-avs-edge-stars-5-4-in-a-shootout

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Breaking: Colorado reunites with Stanley Cup champion Nazem Kadri

TAMPA, FLORIDA - JUNE 26: Nazem Kadri #91 of the Colorado Avalanche lifts the Stanley Cup after defeating the Tampa Bay Lightning 2-1 in Game Six of the 2022 NHL Stanley Cup Final. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) | Getty Images

In what looked to be a pretty quiet deadline day for the Avs, as they had already gotten most of their business taken care of in the weeks and days leading up to the deadline, they managed to get a deal into the queue before the official cutoff to bring home a very familiar face and one of the biggest names on the trade market for this deadline: Nazem Kadri.

We have acquired Nazem Kadri and a 2027 fourth-round pick from the Calgary Flames in exchange for forward Victor Olofsson, the rights to unsigned draft pick Max Curran, a conditional 2028 first-round pick and a conditional 2027 second-round pick.

— Colorado Avalanche (@avalanche.bsky.social) 2026-03-06T21:49:21.126Z

This is the big trade that Avs fans have been talking about wanting to happen leading up to the deadline, and Colorado actually managed to pull it off. Kadri is and has been a fan-favorite player for years and years now, and of course, was a massive part of the 2022 Stanley Cup-winning team. Calgary did retain 20% of Kadri’s AAV for the remainder of his contract in this deal as well, which brings his contract down to $5.6M through the 2028-29 season. This means that the Avs were actually able to make the money work, especially with big financial commitments looming, such as Cale Makar’s extension.

In the biggest deal of the day and perhaps of the entire trade deadline period, thr Avalanche give up a conditional 2028 first round pick, a conditional 2027 second round pick, depth forward Victor Olofsson and unsigned prospect Max Curran. We previously discussed how with Curran electing to go to college as a 2024 draftee his rights likely wouldn’t not extend and is a good candidate as a trade chip. The Avalanche will have to address the opportunity cost of dwindled assets at next years trade deadline but this is a fair price to pay and even hints at Calgary doing Kadri a favor with this deal.

Condition update:
– '28 1st converts to a '29 1st if either its a Top 10 pick or the '28 is transferred to TOR from the Roy trade

-'27 2nd – is the better of COL or MINhttps://t.co/MdUgXU949b

— PuckPedia (@PuckPedia) March 6, 2026

The 35-year old center is having a slight down year, with 12 goals and 29 assists in 61 games for the Flames so far. That said, Kadri will undoubtedly have a better supporting cast in Colorado compared to Calgary and should be more than fine playing and producing on this team.

Ultimately, I don’t know how you feel anything other than great about this move. As I said, Kadri has been a fan-favorite player for years and years now, and people have wanted him to come back to Colorado since he signed in Calgary in the 2022 offseason. Now, he’s back and gets another chance to chase another Stanley Cup. I think I speak for a lot of Avs fans when I say I’m so excited for him to be back, and I’m extremely excited to watch this team after the deadline for the remainder of the regular season and the playoffs. It’s going to be a ton of fun.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...eunites-with-stanley-cup-champion-nazem-kadri

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Preview: A Naz-ty Reunion Against Minnesota

DENVER, COLORADO - JUNE 02: Nazem Kadri #91 of the Colorado Avalanche celebrates a goal scored by Artturi Lehkonen #62 on Mike Smith #41 of the Edmonton Oilers during the second period in Game Two of the Western Conference Final of the 2022 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Ball Arena on June 02, 2022 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Colorado Avalanche, boasting the most formidable lineup in the NHL this season, just got a little nastier coming out of the NHL trade deadline.

Or, perhaps more fittingly, Naz-tier.

Nazem Kadri begins his second stint as a member of the Avs today, who face the newly reconfigured Minnesota Wild in a high stakes matchup at Ball Arena.

Colorado Avalanche (42-10-9)​

The Opponent: Minnesota Wild (37-16-10)

Time: 12:00 P.M. MST/2:00 P.M. EST

Watch: HBO MAX/TNT/truTV (U.S. National Broadcast), TVAS/TVAS+ (Canadian National Broadcast), SN+, NHL Centre Ice (Outside Avalanche and Wild Broadcast Region – Canada)

Listen: Altitude Sports Radio KKSE-FM 92.5 FM

Colorado Avalanche​

The Avalanche return home on the heels of their most challenging stretch of hockey in the wake of the Olympic break. They defeated the Dallas Stars by a 5-4 shootout decision after coming back from separate 3-1 and 4-2 deficits on Friday evening at American Airlines Center. After Stars captain Jamie Benn botched an empty net play that would have secured a key regulation victory for Dallas, Valeri Nichushkin tied the game with 13.2 seconds remaining in the third period. Scott Wedgewood, who replaced Mackenzie Blackwood after he surrendered four goals on eleven shots, was sensational in relief, stopping everything that came his way in regulation, and made brilliant saves on Dallas’ Miro Heiskanen in overtime and both Jason Robertson and Matt Duchene in the shootout. Martin Nečas scored what proved to be the shootout winner on Jake Oettinger, and Nichushkin added another shootout goal to ice the comeback, salvaging two critical points in the standings from falling into Dallas’ hands. The victory completed a sweep of the Avs’ three game road trip, and was their fifth win in six games, while snapping Dallas’ franchise record ten game winning streak.

Coach Jared Bednar said this of Nichushkin’s performance on Friday: “I feel like he’s been playing a lot better right before the break, coming out of the break, he’s starting to using his legs like we’re used to seeing. He had been fighting the puck for a little bit, had a little bit of an injury that was bothering him; he was playing through that, and he’s been snakebit […] hopefully this sparks him here, and he starts feeling it a little bit, because he deserves to put a few more back in the net.”

In their win over Dallas, the Avalanche further solidified their position as the undisputed leader across the Central Division, Western Conference, and League standings. Coming into today’s game against Minnesota, they have a six point lead over Dallas with a game in hand, and a nine point lead over Minnesota with two games in hand. While the Avs trail the season series as a result of their 5-2 defeat on home ice by Minnesota on February 26, this version of the Avalanche roster will look markedly different from the one that Minnesota faced previously with the return of Nazem Kadri—a reunion that many Avs fans felt was nearly impossible—after being re-acquired from the Calgary Flames on Friday afternoon.

Despite having just a twelve goals to this point in this year, his lowest since the COVID-shortened 2020-2021 season, Kadri’s physicality, face-off prowess, and penchant for drawing penalties will be huge as the Avs close in on that coveted top seed for the playoffs. He should have no problem getting re-acquainted with Bednar’s system, and his chemistry within the locker room speaks for itself. Kadri will undoubtedly receive a hero’s welcome from Avs fans for his first game in a Colorado sweater in over three years.

Today marks the final game of the four game series with Minnesota, but a win by the Avalanche this afternoon could all but put the top spot in the Central Division out of Minnesota’s reach.

(Let’s try not to launch any pucks from the defensive zone on the penalty kill today.)

Nathan MacKinnon still leads the NHL with a League-best 42 goals and has closed the points gap with Edmonton’s Connor McDavid (MacKinnon has 103 points; McDavid leads the League with 106). Nečas, who tied his career high in goals (28) this past Friday in Dallas, is two goals away from a tie for second place in goal scoring with Brock Nelson (30). Cale Makar is one goal away from his fourth season of reaching the 20 goal marker.

Projected Lineup​

Forwards:
Gabe Landeskog – Nathan MacKinnon – Martin Nečas
Ross Colton – Brock Nelson – Valeri Nichushkin
Parker Kelly – Nazem Kadri – Nicolas Roy
Joel Kiviranta – Jack Drury – Gavin Brindley

Defense:
Devon Toews – Cale Makar
Josh Manson – Brent Burns
Brett Kulak – Sam Malinski

Between the Pipes:
Mackenzie Blackwood
Scott Wedgewood

Minnesota Wild​

Minnesota came out of the Olympic break with a huge opportunity to gain ground in the hotly contested Central Division with their victory over Colorado. However, two consecutive losses to division opponents (ironically, a 5-2 loss at the hands of the Utah Mammoth on February 27—the night after they defeated Colorado by the exact same score—and a 3-1 loss to the St Louis Blues on March 01) allowed Dallas to reclaim second place, dropping Minnesota to third in the division. Coming into today’s game, Minnesota pulled within two points of Dallas, having defeated the Vegas Golden Knights by a score of 4-2 at T-Mobile Arena this past Friday, so a win in Denver today would be pretty massive. However, since Dallas holds a game in hand on Minnesota, they would still retain second place in the division. With less than twenty games left in the regular season, Minnesota may need to start getting help from other teams in order to position themselves more favorably as teams hit the final stretch of the season.

While Minnesota landed its biggest trade piece earlier this season in the Quinn Hughes deal last November, GM Bill Guerin was very active leading up to the NHL trade deadline. He claimed center Robby Fabbri off waivers from the St. Louis Blues, and acquired defenseman Jeff Petry from the Florida Panthers in exchange for Minnesota’s seventh round pick in this year’s draft. He also acquired center Michael McCarron in exchange for Minnesota’s second round pick in 2028.

Guerin wasn’t done there: at the deadline, he acquired right wing Bobby Brink from the Philadelphia Flyers in exchange for defenseman David Jiříček. Brink made his debut for Minnesota this past Friday, but is no stranger to playing in Colorado, having won several awards at the collegiate level, including the NCAA championship in 2022, with the University of Denver Pioneers. Guerin also acquired Nick Foligno, the brother of Minnesota assistant captain Marcus Foligno, from the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for future considerations. Marcus Foligno is currently out with injury, but could return to the lineup against Colorado. Vinnie Hinostroza was also dealt to the Florida Panthers in exchange for future considerations.

Minnesota’s retooled lineup will give them a much different appearance in this final regular season matchup against Colorado. The addition of Brink will give them another option on offense; while his thirteen goals would tie him for seventh place among Minnesota skaters, this figure is a career high for him in his short NHL career and could see a bump in his new surroundings, especially if he continues to see top six ice time like he did this past Friday against Vegas. Foligno and McCarron add a veteran presence that playoff-bound clubs find irrisitible for playoff runs, and while Fabbri has struggled in recent seasons, having roster depth—especially at center—is a must have at this time of year as teams gear up for postseason play.

Kirill Kaprizov and Matt Boldy currently share the team lead in goals (35). Kaprizov leads all skaters in points (75), while Boldy is three points behind in second place (72). Filip Gustavsson got the start Minnesota’s previous victory in Colorado, but was unable to finish the game due to illness. With Gustavsson getting a majority of the starter’s workload since coming back from the Olympics, it’s possible Jesper Wallstedt starts today to give Gustavsson a breather prior to Minnesota’s upcoming four game homestand starting on Tuesday.

Projected Lineup​

Forwards:
Kirill Kaprizov – Ryan Hartman – Mats Zuccarello
Matt Boldy – Joel Eriksson Ek – Bobby Brink
Vladimir Tarasenko – Danila Yurov – Yakov Trenin
Robby Fabbri – Michael McCarron – Nico Sturm

Defense:
Quinn Hughes – Brock Faber
Jonas Brodin – Jared Spurgeon
Jake Middleton – Zach Bogosian

Between the Pipes:
Jesper Wallstedt
Filip Gustavsson

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...62389/preview-a-naz-ty-rematch-with-minnesota

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Rinkside Recap: Kadri assists MacKinnon in Avs’ 3-2 shootout win over Wild

Denver, CO — It’s 2026, and Nazem Kadri has returned to the Mile High City, and we were in the press box and locker room at Ball Arena to give our massive, loyal, and downright die-hard community a closer look at Avs vs. Wild!

Back on home ice at noon! pic.twitter.com/eBftUUUpL7

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) March 8, 2026

We were hit with some not-so-good news just as the Colorado Avalanche came out for their warm-up, as the Colorado Avalanche X account sent out the following tweet regarding Gabe Landeskog’s injury status:

Gabriel Landeskog will not play due to a lower-body injury. He is week-to-week.

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) March 8, 2026

It’s a good thing the Avalanche added another forward to the lineup!

This one played out like a goalie showcase, with both Jesper Wallstedt and Scott Wedgewood turning down every puck they saw in the first half and working hard to keep it tight throughout the contest.

The Game​

The first frame came and went quickly, but it did feature some physicality and power-play chances for Colorado that they couldn’t capitalize on.

Nazem Kadri nearly scored on the first and second power plays of the period, immediately slotting into the power-play unit with Gabe Landeskog and Artturi Lehkonen on the mend. He was used early and often, logging the third-highest TOI after one period of play.

Minnesota was happy to head into the first intermission tied at 0-0 with all of the chances that the Avalanche earned.

Colorado was plenty dangerous, earning 14 first-period shots on goal. The top group of MacKinnon, Necas, and Kadri logging seven of them.

The Wild weathered the first wave.

The second wave came early with Colorado earning a third chance on the man-advantage after Ryan Hartman’s stick caught Nazem Kadri up high. Still nothing doing altough we saw Makar, Necas, and MacKinnon rotating and creating in ways that are new to the approach. It felt like just a matter of time.

Nazem Kadri went to work on a loose puck in the corner with two Wild players defending, but they gave him just enough space to find Nathan MacKinnon alone in front of Wallstedt. MacKinnon made no mistake, and just like that, it was 1-0, Colorado.

My first-period analysis of the netminding play was confirmed in the second half of the game as well, with both keepers ensuring a tight, low-scoring affair. We would head to the third with Colorado still hanging on to their one goal lead.

Nazem Kadri Nathan MacKinnon

Just like old times pic.twitter.com/gtNxSoi9S4

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) March 8, 2026

Ross Colton’s third-period slashing penalty gave Kirill Karpizov and the Wild a chance to tie. That they did as Kapizov’s slap pass found Boldy, who ripped it past Wedgewood. The goal was credited to Kaprizov when I was writing this, but I’m almost positive it was an on-purpose goal for Boldy.

Colorado would earn even more power play looks in the final frame, and l looked poised to re-establish their lead. That is, until a chip didn’t get deep enough, which quickly turned into a Wild clearance that found Nico Sturm all alone. He scored shorthanded and on the breakaway to make it 2-1 Wild.

Chris MacFarland was busy this week, and another one of his acquisitions would show up big for the Avalanche as Brett Kulak’s point shot was redirected by Nicolas Roy and into the net, and we were once again tied, this time at two a side

We would need overtime, and a shootout yet again.

Nathan MacKinnon would seal the deal for the Avalanche with the fourth shot for Colorado as Nazem Kadri was unable to pot his shootout attempt that would have won it with the third go.

The Avalanche have beaten the Dallas Stars and the Minnesota Wild in three days. Not too shabby.

Takeaways​

When the trade for Nazem Kadri first hit the wire, most fans assumed Ross Colton or a centerman would head back to Calgary in return, but such is not the case. With that, the question was, “Who is gonna move out to the wing?” Well, it looks like they are alright with throwing another new guy, Nicolas Roy, on the right to make way for MacKinnon, Nelson, Kadri, and Drury. We also saw Nazem playing wing with the top group situationally.

The Avalanche have options.

Young goaltender Jesper Wallstedt was excellent for the Wild today and did all he could to keep it close in front of the vivacious crowd at Ball Arena.

It really is incredible that Chris MacFarland pulled off the Nazem Kadri reunion, and the fruits of his labor were immediately on display, with Kadri showing it wouldn’t take him long to get reacquainted with his teammates.

Nazem Kadri postgame:

"They understand that we got ourselves a great opportunity here, and when everyone's on that same page, in 2022, that's exactly the feeling I had, so there's a lot of work to be done.

Nobody's gonna give it to us, but we're gonna work for it." #GoAvsGo… pic.twitter.com/D5d8K54fgL

— Adrian Hernandez (@AdoHernandez27) March 8, 2026

I know this will be met with vitriol in the comments, but I actually liked what I saw from the Avalanche power play, and I’m the first one to say I don’t like it when we write off a loss to “getting goalied,” but from my view, Wallstedt was the best player for either side this evening.

The Avs have now won two straight games via shootout, which is against the norm, and have looked excellent against the other top dogs in the division. With contributions from every trade deadline acquisition, Jared Bednar was asked if he’s willing to say this team is better than the team in 2022. His response? “No.”

Jared Bednar, when asked if he thinks this team is now better than the 2022 team:

"No."

"If we win, then we can have that conversation."#GoAvsGo | @MileHighHockey

— Adrian Hernandez (@AdoHernandez27) March 8, 2026

Upcoming​

The Avalanche will welcome the Edmonton Oilers for another 8 p.m. start time on Tuesday. Can Colorado continue their run against Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and the struggling Oilers team?

Let us know what you thought of this contest in the comments!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...s-mackinnon-in-avs-3-2-shootout-win-over-wild

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Weekly Cupcakes: Kadri receives standing ovation

DENVER, COLORADO - MARCH 08: Nazem Kadri #91 of the Colorado Avalanche is introduced prior to the game against the Minnesota Wild at Ball Arena on March 08, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Andrew Wevers/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Colorado Avalanche News​

• Colorado Avalanche will go without their Captain for a bit again, Gabe Landeskog is out week-to-week after taking a puck to the groin. [TSN]

• Avalanche fans welcome Nazem Kadri back to Colorado with standing ovation. [Sportsnet]

• Avalanche also acquired center Nicolas Roy. [NHL]

News Around the League​

• The Maple Leafs are going to need some help to keep their first-round pick. And if they do get some help finishing in the bottom five and retaining their 2026 selection, they’ll lose their picks the next two years. Yes, it’s complicated. [Toronto Star]
• Fans of the Ottawa Senators are waiting with bated breath for Jake Sanderson injury update. [Toronto Sun]
• Edmonton Oilers face make or break road trip for playoff hopes. [USA Today]
• 2026 NHL trade deadline report cards: Grading every team’s moves (or lack thereof). [NY Times]
• Here’s a list of which players were dealt — and which ones weren’t — on NHL Trade Deadline day. [CP 24]
• Two sentences on every deal made during 2026 NHL trade deadline. [Sportsnet]
• NHL GMs frustrated by new salary cap rules at trade deadline. [ESPN]

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/daily-cupcakes-sandie/62426/weekly-cupcakes

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Nazem Kadri Didn’t Come Back for a Specific Role — He Came Back to Win a Stanley Cup

DENVER, COLORADO - MARCH 08: Nazem Kadri #91 of the Colorado Avalanche warms up prior to the game against the Minnesota Wild at Ball Arena on March 08, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Andrew Wevers/Getty Images) | Getty Images

For Nazem Kadri, stepping back into Ball Arena carried some serious weight — excitement, emotion, and the unmistakable feeling of returning to a place that still feels like home.

“Super excited!” Kadri said about coming back to Colorado and making his return against division foe the Minnesota Wild.

The feeling wasn’t a mystery. In fact, when Kadri spoke with TSN just after the trade broke, he admitted the Avalanche had long been on his radar.

“A team at the very top of my list,” he said of the Colorado Avalanche, and we now know that Kadri was pushing for the deal late on deadline day.

Avalanche fans have come to expect Nazem Kadri’s competitive edge, and it surfaced quickly in Colorado’s tense matchup with Minnesota. Kadri made it clear he wanted to be the one to finish it.

“I wanted that one bad,” he admitted after the shootout win. Bednar sent him out for the third shot with a chance to win it, but he was unable to materialize that headline.

The drive to deliver in big moments is part of what made Kadri such a fan favorite in Colorado in the first place — and the Ball Arena crowd reminded him of that with a roar as he came out for warm-ups and a standing ovation following a welcome back video.

“These fans are special,” Kadri said, reflecting on the reception he received.

Welcome back @43_Kadri! #GoAvsGo | @MileHighHockey pic.twitter.com/OCOzX2egAs

— Mile High Hockey Lab (@MHH_LAB) March 9, 2026

The noise was deafening, but also exactly what he expected.

“It’s almost like a pinch me type moment, like, Wow, this is crazy. Hey guys, can you settle down? I gotta focus here,” he laughed. “But no… I love the noise.”

Of course, the night came with a few wrinkles and an unfamiliar request. No problem for Naz, though. Kadri found himself stepping into a role he hadn’t played in quite some time.

“I haven’t played wing in years, actually,” he joked.

Still, playing alongside elite talent like Nathan MacKinnon makes the transition easier, as evidenced by Kadri’s assist on MacKinnon’s game-opening tally. Kadri spoke about the experience of skating next to MacKinnon and adapting to whatever the team needed in the moment.

Nazem Kadri Nathan MacKinnon

Just like old times pic.twitter.com/gtNxSoi9S4

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) March 8, 2026

Because the bigger focus isn’t on who’s playing where.

It’s doing whatever it takes to win a Stanley Cup.

“I think we got what it takes,” Kadri said. “Just being around the guys and understanding their level of focus. They know we’ve got ourselves a great opportunity here… but nobody is going to give it to us. We’re going to work for it.”

Nazem Kadri knows the Avalanche have a great opportunity this season!#GoAvsGo | @MileHighHockey pic.twitter.com/mojLLLfA77

— Mile High Hockey Lab (@MHH_LAB) March 9, 2026

It feels like Nazem Kadri will be the rubber stamp to any message that captain Gabe Landeskog delivers within the room, and the feeling is that the emotional core of this Avalanche team has been restored.

Head coach Jared Bednar sees the same determination from his group as they push toward the postseason, and he’s seen it since camp.

“All the guys in our room want to be here and want a chance to go into the playoffs and play together,” Bednar said. “Now we get to go to work to try and achieve our goal.”

Maybe that’s what made last night’s overtime win feel like more than just two points.

For Kadri, it was a reminder of the connection between player, team, and city.

The standing ovation and roar of the crowd.
The intensity and anticipation of the moments to come.
The tone of belief inside the locker room.

It’s the kind of energy that makes a player realize he’s exactly where he wants to be.

And for Kadri, that realization is simple.

Colorado wasn’t just an option.

It was the place he wanted most — and now, together with the Avalanche, the work toward another Stanley Cup begins.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...pecific-role-he-came-back-to-win-lord-stanley

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Breaking: Gabe Landeskog ‘week-to-week’ with lower-body injury

DENVER, CO — We are back in the press box at Ball Arena and just in time to see the return of Nazem Kadri, however, before that we got a bit of bad news. It appears that whatever was ailing Gabe Landeskog against Dallas that forced him to go back to the dressing room momentarily, will in fact keep him out of the lineup for today’s contest against the Minnesota Wild and beyond as he’s been given the ‘week-to-week’ distinction just as the team came out for warm-ups.

Gabriel Landeskog will not play due to a lower-body injury. He is week-to-week.

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) March 8, 2026

Early speculation is that Landeskog’s injury is the result of a puck that he wore to an uncomfortable area in Colorado’s thrilling shootout victory over the Dallas Stars. That’s purely speculation though so we will keep an eye on reports and be sure to get a clearer explenation from Jared Bednar following the game.

Landeskog did wear a puck against Dallas.

The likely culprit.#GoAvsGo

— Adrian Hernandez (@AdoHernandez27) March 8, 2026

Be on the look out for a Rink-side Recap following the game for more from the locker room and press box!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...landeskog-week-to-week-with-lower-body-injury