RSS Avalanche Team Notes

[Colorado Avalanche]

Preview: Colorado looks to keep it rolling against the Canucks

After getting back on track with a 7-2 win over the Montreal Canadiens, the Avalanche take on the Vancouver Canucks tonight in Denver. This will be the second of three regular-season matchups between these two teams, with Colorado winning the first game.

Colorado Avalanche (18-1-6)​

Colorado’s 10-game win streak came to a close on Friday, when they lost in a shootout to the Minnesota Wild. After that, they bounced back against the Montreal Canadiens, winning that game 7-2, as previously mentioned. In that game, your superstars were your superstars, with Martin Necas recording three assists, but your second line was also extremely good and did a lot of heavy lifting, with Brock Nelson and Gabriel Landeskog each scoring two goals. Tonight, you’ll need people to step up again to compete with the Canucks.

Projected Lineup​

Artturi Lehkonen – Nathan MacKinnon – Martin Necas
Ross Colton – Brock Nelson – Gabriel Landeskog
Parker Kelly – Jack Drury – Victor Olofsson
Ivan Ivan – Zakhar Bardakov – Joel Kiviranta

Devon Toews – Cale Makar
Josh Manson – Brent Burns
Samuel Girard – Sam Malinski

Mackenzie Blackwood
Scott Wedgewood

Vancouver Canucks (10-13-3)​

The Canucks come into this matchup on the opposite end of the isle from Colorado, having only won two out of their last ten games. That being said, as Colorado learned last time when they won in overtime against this team, they are not to be taken lightly. They still have a bunch of talent up and down their lineup, and players that can make you pay for being lazy or making a mistake. To secure a win tonight, Colorado will need to mind their details, and make sure they take this team seriously.

Projected Lineup​

Evander Kane – Elias Pettersson – Jake DeBrusk
Brock Boeser – David Kampf – Kiefer Sherwood
Drew O’Connor – Aatu Raty – Jonathan Lekkerimaki
Arshdeep Bains – Max Sasson – Linus Karlsson

Quinn Hughes – Filip Hronek
Marcus Pettersson – Tyler Myers
Pierre-Olivier Joseph – Tom Willander

Kevin Lankinen
Nikita Tolopilo

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...-looks-to-keep-it-rolling-against-the-canucks

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Recap: Colorado cruises to victory against Vancouver

After a very exciting 7-2 victory over the Montreal Canadiens, the Colorado Avalanche took on the Vancouver Canucks tonight, and won by a final score of 3-1.

Let’s look at all the action from tonight!

First Period:​

The Canucks got on the board first, as Linus Karlsson would score on what was a really pretty passing play. There’s not much the goaltender could’ve done on this play, as Karlsson got all the way behind the defense and made a really nice finishing move to score the first of the game. Somehow Vancouver had the early lead.

TIC-TAC-GOAL!
Räty Bains Karlsson pic.twitter.com/Bg3CQH7hPa

— Vancouver Canucks (@Canucks) December 3, 2025

Before the period would end, the Avalanche tied the game with less than a minute left on the clock, as Nathan MacKinnon would bury a really juicy rebound into an empty net to score his first goal of the game.

MacKinnon cleans up in front pic.twitter.com/U2UqMHKZcg

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) December 3, 2025

Second Period:​

Brock Nelson would continue his scoring streak, as he would give the Avs a 2-1 lead with about six minutes left in the second period. On a breakaway he received a very nice pass from Gabe Landeskog and finished it in the net.

Breakaway Brock pic.twitter.com/flXrvBH4eJ

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) December 3, 2025

MacKinnon scored his second of the night with less than a minute to go in the second period, as he beat the Vancouver goalie clean with a one-timer, to give the Avs a 3-1 lead going into the third period.

Landeskog to MacKinnon.

It never gets old. pic.twitter.com/0zv3evx64i

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) December 3, 2025

Third Period:​

After getting a 3-1 lead, Colorado locked it down defensively for the most part in this period and didn’t allow Vancouver a whole lot of chances to make a comeback bid in this period.

Takeaways:​

After a very high-scoring game against Montreal, having an arguably boring game like this was nice to see, especially seeing that Colorado would win a game like this. It’s not exactly a secret that this team can score and keep up with just about every other high-octane offense in this league, but knowing how to win games 3-1 is also very valuable to be able to do as a team, in my opinion, especially when playoff season comes around in the spring. Once again, your superstars were your superstars tonight, as MacKinnon scored another two goals tonight, and Brock Nelson also continued his hot streak. Nelson has been looking more and more encouraging as games have gone on, he looks like a great fit for this team as he’s gotten more comfortable in this lineup, and I’m excited to see him get even better.

Upcoming:​

Colorado heads back out on the road next to take on the New York Islanders on Thursday, December 4. Puck drop will be at 5:00 p.m. MT.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...colorado-cruises-to-victory-against-vancouver

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Morning Flurries: MacKinnon named first star of November

It was a November to remember for the NHL’s leading scorer and as such, Colorado Avalanche superstar center Nathan MacKinnon was named by the league as the first star of the month. He put up eye-popping production to the tune of 26 points over 13 games including 11 goals to close out November.

NHL first ️ of the month for The Dogg! pic.twitter.com/unbrLXZtFK

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) December 2, 2025

Per the NHL’s press release:

MacKinnon ranked among the monthly leaders in even-strength points (1st; 20), plus/minus (1st; +20), points (t-1st; 26), even-strength assists (t-2nd; 11), goals (t-3rd; 11), even-strength goals (t-3rd; 9), assists (t-3rd; 15) and shots on goal (t-4th; 57).

This isn’t MacKinnon’s first honor of the 2025-26 season as he was named first star of the week on November 10th, paving the way to receive this recognition now for the entire month.

If MacKinnon continues to pile up these type of accolades is he in line for his second career Hart Trophy for league MVP?

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/morn...urries-mackinnon-named-first-star-of-november

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Open Thread: Colorado Avalanche vs. Vancouver Canucks (7:00 p.m. MT)

After getting back on track with a 7-2 win over the Montreal Canadiens, the Avalanche take on the Vancouver Canucks tonight in Denver. This will be the second of three regular-season matchups between these two teams, with Colorado winning the first game.

Colorado Avalanche (18-1-6)​

Colorado’s 10-game win streak came to a close on Friday, when they lost in a shootout to the Minnesota Wild. After that, they bounced back against the Montreal Canadiens, winning that game 7-2, as previously mentioned. In that game, your superstars were your superstars, with Martin Necas recording three assists, but your second line was also extremely good and did a lot of heavy lifting, with Brock Nelson and Gabriel Landeskog each scoring two goals. Tonight, you’ll need people to step up again to compete with the Canucks. Val Nichushkin is expected back in the lineup, thus no recall from the Colorado Eagles has been made.

Projected Lineup​

Artturi Lehkonen – Nathan MacKinnon – Martin Necas
Ross Colton – Brock Nelson – Gabriel Landeskog
Val Nichushkin – Jack Drury – Victor Olofsson
Parker Kelly – Zakhar Bardakov – Joel Kiviranta

Devon Toews – Cale Makar
Josh Manson – Brent Burns
Samuel Girard – Sam Malinski

Mackenzie Blackwood
Scott Wedgewood

Vancouver Canucks (10-13-3)​

The Canucks come into this matchup on the opposite end of the isle from Colorado, having only won two out of their last ten games. That being said, as Colorado learned last time when they won in overtime against this team, they are not to be taken lightly. They still have a bunch of talent up and down their lineup, and players that can make you pay for being lazy or making a mistake. To secure a win tonight, Colorado will need to mind their details, and make sure they take this team seriously.

Projected Lineup​

Evander Kane – Elias Pettersson – Jake DeBrusk
Brock Boeser – David Kampf – Kiefer Sherwood
Drew O’Connor – Aatu Raty – Jonathan Lekkerimaki
Arshdeep Bains – Max Sasson – Linus Karlsson

Quinn Hughes – Filip Hronek
Marcus Pettersson – Tyler Myers
Pierre-Olivier Joseph – Tom Willander

Kevin Lankinen
Nikita Tolopilo

Goaltenders​

Scott Wedgewood is expected to get the start despite Mackenzie Blackwood earning the big win over Montréal. For the Canucks, Kevin Lankinen is expected in net.

Follow along in the comments below!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...ado-avalanche-vs-vancouver-canucks-700-p-m-mt

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Open Thread: Colorado Avalanche vs. New York Islanders (5:00 p.m.)

The Avalanche have enjoyed a lot of success lately, and once again, it’s time to test their mettle on the East Coast as they visit Patrick Roy and the New York Islanders at UBS Arena tonight. Nathan MacKinnon is the league’s top point-getter, and the Avalanche are the NHL’s winningest club so far. A miserable injury wave has hit the Islanders. Will the wounded Islanders rally on home ice, or will Colorado log their 20th regulation win in 27 games?

Colorado Avalanche: 19-1-6​

The Opponent: New York Islanders 14-10-3

Time: 5:00 p.m. MT

Watch: Altitude, Altitude+, ESPN+

Listen: Altitude Sports Radio, 92.5 FM

Colorado Avalanche​

It’s tough to really analyze a team that is experiencing this much success outside of saying, “yeah, it’s working.” The Avalanche are sporting a +50 goal differential and haven’t lost a game in regulation since October 25th. They have shown themselves to be a team that can establish a lead and shut it down. They’ve shown themselves to be a team that can come back and win, and they’ve also blown teams out.

Out east. pic.twitter.com/wUOvWnWGlL

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) December 4, 2025

There is possibly one gripe that is reasonable to have, even inside all of Colorado’s winning. The power play has only tallied three road goals all season and still hasn’t quite clicked. A part of that is Cale Makar’s continued not-so-hot streak without a power-play tally since April 6th, 2025. Possibly, they can get one in all three road games this week?

Avs saw the return of Val Nichushkin, who mostly got third-line minutes with Gabe Landeskog, Brock Nelson, and Ross Colton finding their groove. An Avalanche roster that can afford to ease a player like Val Nichushkin back into the fold is clearly a deep one.

The same is true when you look at the goalie room. The Avs called up Trent Miner, and if he makes the trip, he will likely get a start in the Saturday/Sunday back-to-back. That is, unless they let MacKenzie Blackwood play all three games this week, given that he missed a good portion of the start of the season. What a luxury it is to be a team that can afford to let one of the NHL’s best and most winningest net minders, Scott Wedgewood, be overprotective with a tight-back. Ask Edmonton how hard it is to find good goaltending in this league.

Projected Lineup:​

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

Devon Toews — Cale Makar
Josh Manson — Brent Burns
Samuel Girard — Sam Malinski

MacKenzie Blackwood
Trent Miner

New York Islanders​

The Islanders have taken two heavy hits on the injury front, both on notable plays. First, we saw Alexander Romanov go crashing into the boards after a familiar fin shoved him (intentional or not) from behind in a dangerous position. This play prompted a heated exchange between Patrick Roy and Mikko Rantanen in which Roy yelled, “You’re not going to f—-ing finish that game,” referencing a March 26, 2026, contest between the Islanders and Stars next calendar year. Mikko has since responded, saying, “I’m a grown man, so that I can stand up for myself.”

BREAKING: #Isles D Alexander Romanov is out 5-6 months with a shoulder injury suffered on this week’s hit from Mikko Rantanen. #TexasHockey pic.twitter.com/YndyuTcTfb

— NHL News (@PuckReportNHL) November 23, 2025

The second injury occurred during what I consider one of the most quintessential hockey plays in recent history. Kyle Palmieri went down and immediately knew it wasn’t good. In fact, he tore his ACL and will be out for the rest of the season. That didn’t stop him from stick lifting an opponent and sending a backhand saucer that his teammates would inevitably put in the net. Palmieri was already headed to the room when the goal was scored.

Kyle Palmieri after getting hurt on the boards, stole the puck while heading to the bench, got the assist and then went to the dressing room pic.twitter.com/EBg7ugtYwc

— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) November 28, 2025

The Islanders are definitely not as dangerous without Romanov and Palmieri. Still, they are going to be competitive every night or risk hearing it from the most outstanding goalie in hockey history. Speaking of former Avs, we will get another glimpse at Cal Ritchie and Jo Drouin as Islanders tonight!

Projected Lineup:​

Emil Heineman — Bo Horvat — Maxim Shabanov
Anders Lee — Mathew Barzal — Jonathan Drouin
Simon Holmstrom — Calum Ritchie — Anthony Duclair
Kyle MacLean — Casey Cizikas — Maxim Tsyplakov

Matthew Schaefer — Ryan Pulock
Adam Pelech — Tony DeAngelo
Travis Mitchell — Scott Mayfield

Ilya Soroki
David Rittich

Time to take care of the Island Boys.

Follow along in the comments below!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/open...orado-avalanche-vs-new-york-islanders-500-p-m

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Colorado Eagles three stars from November

The Colorado Eagles continued their success from the month of October into November as they finished still on top of the Pacific division with a record of 14-5-1 good for 29 points. The schedule included a pivotal four-game back-to-back weekend sets with rival Tucson in which earned the Eagles a split as well as a split with second place San Jose Barracuda to finish out the month with a 7-3-1 record over the 11-game slate.

Injuries have taken a toll on many of the Avalanche callup hopefuls including forwards Chase Bradley, Matt Stienburg and now Danil Gushchin. Thankfully, Nikita Prishchepov was finally cleared to play and has since played three contests for the Eagles.

We have one repeat star from October as Tristen Nielsen continued his hot start into this month as well as two new players to highlight. All have spent time with the Colorado Avalanche over the past year.

First Star – F Tristen Nielsen – 18 GP: 10G, 5A, 15P

The month of November was good to the 25-year-old forward as he experienced his NHL debut against the Tampa Bay Lightning early on and then several weeks later returned and picked up his first career NHL point on a Cale Makar goal. In between it was a very productive return to the Eagles for Tristen Nielsen, which earns him first star of the month despite spending some time in the show. Nielsen did most of his damage in the goal department for a total of five in the month for the Eagles plus added an assist in nine games.

Another look at Nielsen's goals pic.twitter.com/ErudEnEXwF

— Colorado Eagles (@ColoradoEagles) November 9, 2025

Second Star – F Tye Felhaber – 20 GP: 7 G, 5A, 12P

He was a much bigger story last year when he earned a contract upgrade to a NHL deal much like Nielsen just experienced. Still, even without a callup this season Tye Felhaber is contributing for the Eagles. He, too, is getting it done in the goals department with six to go along with two assists in 11 November games.

oops pic.twitter.com/iZLFta3xSZ

— Colorado Eagles (@ColoradoEagles) November 23, 2025

Third Star – D Keaton Middleton – 20 GP: 1G, 4A, 5P

The Avalanche might have forgotten about Keaton Middleton but we have not. The six-foot-six defenseman was on a heater to start the month with a goal on an empty net and three assists over five games. He has since settled back into his defensive role to close out the month.

6.7. The Eagles can do it. Middleton on the Empty net #Avs #GoAvsGo #EaglesCountry @HockeyMtnHighCO pic.twitter.com/JEbNXFMK6T

— Brennan Vogt (@brennan_vogt) November 3, 2025

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/ahl-...585/colorado-eagles-three-stars-from-november

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Recap: Islanders give Avalanche second regulation loss

Kicking off an east coast road trip, the Colorado Avalanche visited Long Island in search of their 20th win on the season against the New York Islanders. That milestone will have to wait as the Avalanche suffered their second regulation defeat in a 6-3 final for the Islanders.

Val Nichushkin, Martin Nečas and Artturi Lehkonen all scored for the Avalanche but it wasn’t enough as Colorado gave up 42 shots to their 38 in a game Colorado never led.

The Game

It was a start that’s become a little too familiar lately with the Avalanche giving up the first goal in the game. Kyle MacLean was the beneficiary of a scramble at the net front, which had Mackenzie Blackwood down in the crease, and put the puck in the net. Jared Bednar challenged for goaltender interference but was denied and thus the goal stood for New York.

Explanation of Coach’s Challenge at 5:56 of the first period in the @Avalanche / @NYIslanders game. https://t.co/8AcvIFfV1q

— NHL Public Relations (@NHLPR) December 5, 2025

Due to the unsuccessful challenge, Colorado had to go on the penalty kill and then had to do so again a little later in the first period. New York’s dead last in the NHL ranked power play wasn’t much of a threat but still the Islanders managed to put up another tally before the end of the period. This time it was Anders Lee striking as he was lost in coverage and fired home a shot short side. After 20 minutes of play New York held a 2-0 lead.

Usually the Avalanche counteract their slow starts with good energy right out of the gate in the second period and that didn’t happen here as the Islanders added to their lead when Bo Horvat picked up a loose puck in traffic to put the Islanders up by three.

Not long after that the Avalanche really started collapsing as Blackwood let in a goal that bounced off his glove to Adam Pelech for a 4-0 New York lead. That finally woke up Colorado and 40 seconds later Val Nichushkin tipped a Sam Malinski shot to get the Avalanche on the board. Another minute later, Martin Nečas pushed the puck past Ilya Sorokin and Colorado was back in the game.

The action calmed down for the rest of the second period after that flurry of goals but New York got in another strike before the end of the frame on their 32nd ranked power play. Matt Barzal put a beautiful backhand past Blackwood and the Islanders took a 5-2 lead into the second intermission.

Colorado made it interesting with a quick goal from Artturi Lehkonen to start the third period but they couldn’t build on any momentum to get the score to within one. With just over three minutes to go Colorado received a power play and pulled Blackwood for the extra attacker but couldn’t get anything in the net going 0/3 on the man advantage for the contest. New York, however, did pot another goal for their sixth and final score when Casey Cizikas found the empty net to arrive at the 6-3 final for the Islanders.

Takeaways

It had to happen sometime for the Avalanche to pick up another regulation loss. The squad had been flirting with it for some time now with their bad first period starts. Blackwood at this time may not be as much of a safety net as Scott Wedgewood has been for some defensive breakdowns they are giving up. All that added up to a lackluster effort as the schedule begins to pick up in the month of December.

Though the homecoming may have been bittersweet, Brock Nelson received his tribute video from the Islanders for his first game back on Long Island. He contributed a secondary assist on the Nichushkin goal on the evening.

Always an Islander.

Welcome back to @UBSArena, Brock. pic.twitter.com/9dwAQrvpRh

— New York Islanders (@NYIslanders) December 5, 2025

Upcoming

Another — you guessed it — weekend back-to-back matinees starting with the New York Rangers at 10:30 a.m. MT on Saturday, December 6th.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...landers-give-avalanche-second-regulation-loss

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Preview: Morning Matinee at Madison Square Garden

Colorado’s east coast road trip continues today in a matinee matchup against the New York Rangers. After a disappointing loss against the New York Islanders on Wednesday night, which saw the Colorado Avalanche lose by a final score of 6-3, they look to bounce right back against the Rangers. This will be the second and final regular-season matchup between these two teams, with Colorado winning the first one also by a score of 6-3.

Colorado Avalanche (19-2-6)​

The Opponent: New York Rangers (15-12-2)

Time: 10:30 a.m. MT

Watch: Altitude, Altitude+, ESPN+

Listen: Altitude Sports Radio, 92.5 FM

Unexpectedly, Colorado comes into this game off a loss to the New York Islanders, which was just their second regulation loss since the season started. That game felt like the first true low-effort game from the Avs, in my opinion at least. Yes, they did score and kept themselves competitive in this game at least for a bit, but despite that, it feels like a lot of the players, if not all of them, threw in the towel and didn’t give a full effort to get back into that game, for whatever reason. Which you can excuse if you want to, they have been giving a full effort and during most all the other games this season, and they’re bound to get tired eventually, it happens, especially over the course of an 82-game season. That being said, tonight, they’ll need to give a full effort against the New York Rangers.

Colorado called up Tristen Nielsen from the AHL late last night, no word yet on who might be missing from the lineup but the timing of such transaction suggests it may not be just an insurance move. Also no word on the status of Scott Wedgewood and if he can enter back into the net after Mackenzie Blackwood didn’t have his best game on Long Island.

Projected Lineup​

Artturi Lehkonen – Nathan MacKinnon – Martin Necas
Gabriel Landeskog – Brock Nelson – Ross Colton
Valeri Nichushkin – Jack Drury – Victor Olofsson
Parker Kelly – Zakhar Bardakov – Joel Kiviranta

Devon Toews – Cale Makar
Josh Manson – Brent Burns
Samuel Girard – Sam Malinski

Mackenzie Blackwood
Trent Miner

New York Rangers​

After having some early-season struggles and currently sitting at second-to-last in the Metropolitan Division, the Rangers find themselves just two points out of a playoff spot because of how wide open the Eastern Conference is right now. This Rangers team continues to be one of the more confusing ones in the league, as they have a lot of good players, but they just continue to struggle, especially when playing at home, which could play in Colorado’s favor. As previously mentioned, though, this is no team to scoff at; they are an NHL team with good players, and will likely come out and give Colorado their best shot today.

Projected Lineup​

Artemi Panarin – Mika Zibanejad – Alexis Lafrenière
JT Miller – Vincent Trocheck – Conor Sheary
Will Cuylle – Noah Laba – Brett Berard
Jonny Brodzinski – Sam Carrick – Taylor Raddysh

Vladislav Gavrikov – Braden Schneider
Carson Soucy – Will Borgen
Matthew Robertson – Scott Morrow

Igor Shesterkin
Spencer Martin

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...view-morning-matinee-at-madison-square-garden

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Recap: MacKinnon Scores in Overtime as Avalanche Top Rangers

Nathan MacKinnon scored 2:46 into overtime to give the Colorado Avalanche a 3–2 win over the New York Rangers on Saturday afternoon at Madison Square Garden.

But it definitely didn’t come without a head-scratcher.

The Rangers forced overtime with 42 seconds left when Artemi Panarin blasted a one-timer from Mika Zibanejad past Mackenzie Blackwood. Colorado head coach Jared Bednar immediately challenged, arguing Panarin had played the puck with a high stick earlier in the play. Per the rulebook, he did.

By rule, it’s considered high-sticking if the puck is contacted above shoulder height during play, or above the level of the crossbar on a scoring attempt. On the replay, Panarin’s stick looked clearly above the shoulders of Joel Kiviranta—who stands 5-foot-11—before the puck hit the ice. The officials, however, let the goal stand anyway.

Even with that frustration, Colorado pushed through. MacKinnon finished the night with two goals, giving him an NHL-best 24 on the season. Parker Kelly chipped in his sixth of the year, and Martin Nečas put up three assists. Blackwood was solid, stopping 24 shots.

For the Rangers, Panarin and Conor Sheary scored, and Igor Shesterkin put on a clinic for the most part, but even 39 saves wasn’t enough to get the job done

First Period

The action first started at 7:26 when Cale Makar was called for interference after throwing a reverse hit on J.T. Miller when the latter didn’t have possession of the puck. The Rangers created some dangerous looks on the power play, but Colorado survived thanks to the post. Panarin and Will Cuylle were denied by the narrowest of inches.

New York controlled most of the period with an aggressive forecheck that kept the Avalanche hemmed in and scrambling to get clean exits.

Late in the frame, Nečas broke loose for a breakaway, but Shesterkin shut him down and the period ended scoreless. It was a typical slow start from the Avalanche who only put up nine shots in the period.

Second Period

After a failed power play Colorado finally broke through after a great shift from the fourth line 7:06 into the second when Kelly redirected a Sam Malinski shot from his knees to make it 1–0. The play started with Nečas working the puck behind the net and whipping a slick backhand pass up the wall to Malinski to set the whole sequence in motion. With some better energy Colorado managed to outshoot New York 13-8 in the frame and were rewarded with the lead.

Third Period / Overtime

Sheary tied it 4:23 into the third, taking a saucer pass from Vincent Trocheck, deking around Nečas, and outskated Makar before snapping the puck past Blackwood.

Not long after, Colorado got a power play when Matthew Robertson tripped Valeri Nichushkin, but the shift took a rough turn when Trocheck’s clearing attempt drilled Makar in the helmet. He headed straight to the bench but fortunately returned later after several shifts.

With 4:34 left, MacKinnon struck again—this time batting a rebound out of midair from a Nečas shot to restore the Avalanche lead at 2-1.

Just 26 seconds later, Brock Nelson appeared to have scored an insurance goal off a rebound. The officials initially signaled a goal, but video review revealed the puck never actually crossed the goal line. The call was correctly overturned, and the score remained 2–1.

The Rangers pulled Shesterkin with 1:50 left and eventually tied it on Panarin’s aforementioned controversial goal. After the failed challenge, the game went to overtime—where MacKinnon ended things on his terms. His absolutely filthy backhand even surprised Shesterkin as Colorado walked away with the 3-2 victory.

Next Game

The Avalanche (20-2-6) wrap up the weekend of back-to-back matinees on Sunday against Trevor Zegras and the Philadelphia Flyers (15-8-3) at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Puck drop is set for 11 a.m. local time.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...n-scores-in-overtime-as-avalanche-top-rangers

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Recap: Avalanche Cap Back-to-Back Sweep, Edge Flyers 3–2

The Colorado Avalanche wrapped up a perfect back-to-back with a 3–2 win over the Philadelphia Flyers on Sunday at Xfinity Mobile Arena.

Brent Burns kicked things off for Colorado, Brock Nelson converted on the power play and Valeri Nichushkin added some breathing room with a slick insurance goal early in the second. Between the pipes, Mackenzie Blackwood was rock solid yet again, stopping 24 shots and coming up big when it mattered.

On the Philly side, captain Sean Couturier and Travis Konecny supplied the offense—Konecny especially, firing nine shots on goal all by himself. Samuel Ersson, typically the Flyers’ backup, put in a strong performance too with 25 saves to keep his team in it.

First Period

The Flyers struck just 2:08 into the game when Noah Juulsen fired a slap shot from the point that Couturier redirected past Blackwood, giving Philly an early 1–0 lead.

A little over six minutes later, Burns answered with his fourth goal of the season, firing a wrist shot through traffic—helped by Nichushkin’s screen in front—leaving Ersson no chance. Martin Nečas stayed cool at the left circle and threaded a pinpoint pass to Burns, whose ability to get shots through at age 40 is just insane.

Later, Juulsen was called for tripping Parker Kelly, and Colorado made the most of the power play. Nelson and MacKinnon each took swings at a loose puck, but Nelson got the final tap to give the Avalanche a 2–1 lead. Nečas almost added another, but his one-timer clanged off the post.

Second Period

It didn’t take long for the action to get going as 1:47 in, Nichushkin made it 3–1. He grabbed a cross-ice pass from Devon Toews that deflected off Victor Olofsson’s skate, then ripped a wrister past Ersson.

Konecny made it interesting, cutting the lead to 3–2 with a slick pump-fake to the far post before sliding the puck five-hole on Blackwood.

Burns nearly restored the two-goal cushion midway through the period, sending Olofsson on a breakaway, but Ersson came up with a huge blocker save. Later, Burns hammered another shot from the point, only to see it hit the post. On the same play, Trevor Zegras was called for slashing Nichushkin, giving the Avs another power play—they couldn’t convert. Late in the period, Nečas took a slashing penalty of his own.

Colorado carried the 3–2 lead into intermission, while the Flyers headed to the third with 1:53 left on the man advantage.

Third Period

After killing the penalty, MacKinnon was called for hooking Zegras on a breakaway 4:54 into the period. That led to a penalty shot, a tense moment considering Zegras has a 68% success rate in shootouts (17-for-25). But no dice as Blackwood came up huge again, reading the move perfectly and making the save to preserve the lead.

The rest of the game turned into a high-pressure battle, but Colorado held strong. Philly pulled Ersson twice late, trying to force overtime, but Blackwood stayed locked in, and the Avs skated away with the 3-2 win.

Next Game

The Avalanche (21-2-6) wrap up their four-game road trip Tuesday against the Nashville Predators (10-14-4) at Bridgestone Arena. Coverage kicks off at 7:30 p.m. local time.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...lanche-cap-back-to-back-sweep-edge-flyers-3-2

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Open Thread: Colorado Avalanche at Philadelphia Flyers (11:00 a.m. MT)

After playing a matinee matchup against the New York Rangers yesterday, which saw the Avs win 3-2 in overtime thanks to a ridiculous goal from Nathan MacKinnon, Colorado looks to sweep this back-to-back against the Philadelphia Flyers here today. This will be the first of two regular-season meetings between these two teams.

Colorado Avalanche (20-2-6)​

As mentioned, the Avs wrapped up their regular-season series against the New York Rangers yesterday, as they won 3-2 in overtime, thanks to some heroics from Nathan MacKinnon. He made just a ridiculous move in overtime to freeze a defender, drag the puck back, and then put an insane backhand shot on net that I don’t think a lot of people initially thought actually went in. Regardless, Colorado battled hard in this game and earned another important two points in the standings.

Projected Lineup​

Artturi Lehkonen – Nathan MacKinnon – Martin Necas
Gabriel Landeskog – Brock Nelson – Ross Colton
Valeri Nichushkin – Jack Drury – Victor Olofsson
Parker Kelly – Zakhar Bardakov – Joel Kiviranta

Devon Toews – Cale Makar
Josh Manson – Brent Burns
Samuel Girard – Sam Malinski

Trent Miner
Mackenzie Blackwood

Philadelphia Flyers (15-8-3)​

The Flyers have been maybe one of the surprise teams to start the year, in a good way. They’ve been more competitive than I think a lot of people thought they would be, and because of that, they find themselves just two points back of the third spot in the Metropolitan Division because of how close the East is. This is a very high-skill team, and Colorado will need to keep Philly’s high-skill players off the score sheet if they want to sweep the back-to-back here today.

Projected Lineup​

Trevor Zegras – Christian Dvorak – Travis Konecny
Matvei Michkov – Sean Couturier – Owen Tippett
Nikita Grebenkin – Noah Cates – Bobby Brink
Nicolar Deslauriers – Rodrigo Abols – Garnet Hathaway

Nick Seeler – Travis Sanheim
Emil Andrae – Jamie Drysdale
Egor Zamula – Noah Juulsen

Samuel Ersson
Dan Vladar

Follow along in the comments below!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/open...-avalanche-at-philadelphia-flyers-1100-a-m-mt

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Weekly Cupcakes – Avs suffer their second regulation loss

Colorado Avalanche News​

• The Colorado Avalanche suffered their second regulation time defeat this season. They lost to Patrick Roy’s Isles on Thursday night. [ESPN]
  
• Bednar was unimpressed with a controversial call that ended the Avs point streak during the Isles game. [Sports Illustrated]
  
• Colorado won against the New York Rangers in overtime. [The Hockey News]
  
• Colorado then won against the Flyers for their second road win in a row. [NHL]
  
• Martin Necas is showing his worth this season, this could be a break out year. [Sports Illustrated]
  
• The Avs are on a historic pace this season. [Forbes]
  

News Around the NHL​

• NHL’s Heritage Classic heading to Winnipeg for face-off between Jets and Canadiens. [CBC]
  
• NHLPA is more concerned about the quality of the ice than the size of the Olympic ice. [Sportsnet]
  
• Will Edmonton Oilers use the NHL’s new nuclear option on under-performing veterans? [Edmonton Journal]
  
• Why Jaxon Cover is the 2026 NHL Draft’s most interesting prospect. [Daily Faceoff]

• NHLPA grant provides North Bay North Stars hockey program with $10K in new gear to allow players with intellectual or developmental disability to get on the ice. [CTV News]

• Milan Olympics officials downplay sluggish sales amid hockey rink construction delays and ice concerns. [Daily Mail]
  
• ‘Possibility’ that NHL players won’t be going to Winter Olympics after all, Bill Daly warns. [Toronto Sun]

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/dail...cupcakes-avs-had-their-second-regulation-loss

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Preview: Avalanche end road trip back in Nashville

Wrapping up a busy east coast road trip, the Colorado Avalanche make one last stop before returning home in a rematch with the Nashville Predators at Bridgestone Arena. Not only was that 3-0 Avalanche victory less than three weeks ago but this game will be the first of two meetings this week with the Predators. Needless to say these two teams are going to be very familiar with each other soon.

Colorado Avalanche (21-2-6)​

The Opponent: Nashville Predators (10-14-4)

Time: 7:30 p.m. MT

Watch: Altitude, TNT, HBO MAX

Listen: Altitude Sports Radio, 92.5 FM

Colorado Avalanche​

After a bummer result on Long Island which saw the Avalanche acquire their second regulation loss on the season, they crafted a back-to-back matinee sweep of the New York Rangers and Philadelphia Flyers over the weekend. It wasn’t pretty at times but they got the job done and in return kept their hold on the top spot of the NHL standings with the magical 48 points.

Almost all is right in the world of the burgundy and blue who have recently received Val Nichushkin and Joel Kiviranta back from injury. Both Scott Wedgewood and Gavin Brindley could draw into the lineup tonight as their returns are close as well and if not tonight, then soon.

Nathan MacKinnon continues to lead the league with 49 points but many talented players are close on his heels. He also leads the Rocket Richard race with 24 goals.

Projected Lineup

Artturi Lehkonen – Nathan MacKinnon – Martin Nečas

Gabe Landeskog – Brock Nelson – Victor Olofsson

Val Nichushkin – Jack Drury – Ross Colton

Parker Kelly – Zakhar Bardakov – Joel Kiviranta

Devon Toews – Cale Makar

Josh Manson – Brent Burns

Sam Girard – Sam Malinski

Nashville Predators​

Since their last meeting with Colorado a couple weeks ago, Nashville has enjoyed improved play as of late and have even picked up a few points in the standings. They had won four of their last five games but a 6-3 defeat on Saturday night to Carolina was a setback. Still, they have a hole to dig out of to get back in the playoff picture.

Leading the Predators in scoring at this juncture is actually old friend Ryan O’Reilly with 21 points. He’s really pumping up his trade value in doing so. Both Filip Forsberg and Luke Evangelista are right behind with 19 points each.

They say familiarity breeds contempt and that will be put to the test with not one but two games against the Avalanche this week. Nashville is clearly overmatched playing Colorado but a series of rematches in a short time frame doesn’t favor the superior team. We’ve seen the Avalanche fall victim to bad first periods and slow starts as of late, will Nashville continue to force that trend?

Projected Lineup

Steven Stamkos — Ryan O’Reilly — Luke Evangelista

Filip Forsberg — Erik Haula — Jonathan Marchessault

Reid Schaefer — Fedor Svechkov — Matthew Wood

Michael Bunting — Michael McCarron — Tyson Jost

Nicolas Hague — Roman Josi

Brady Skjei — Adam Wilsby

Nick Blankenburg — Michael McCarron

Goaltenders​

Scott Wedgewood’s health might be the biggest factor in determining who starts for the Avalanche. Trent Miner was sent back to the Colorado Eagles after the Flyers game so Wedgewood should be good to at least back up. Mackenzie Blackwood was excellent in the back-to-back sweep so it wouldn’t be a surprise if he was back in net to close out the road trip.

Justus Annunen has seen the net a little more often for Nashville as of late, most recently in relief in the loss against Carolina. He also received a couple starts at the end of November so it’s possible he could be in net for this game but the Predators starter is clearly Juuse Saros and likely the best chance to thwart the Avalanche.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...iew-avalanche-end-road-trip-back-in-nashville

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Open Thread: Colorado Avalanche at Nashville Predators (7:30 p.m.)

Wrapping up a busy east coast road trip, the Colorado Avalanche make one last stop before returning home in a rematch with the Nashville Predators at Bridgestone Arena. Not only was that 3-0 Avalanche victory less than three weeks ago but this game will be the first of two meetings this week with the Predators. Needless to say these two teams are going to be very familiar with each other soon.

Colorado Avalanche (21-2-6)​

The Opponent: Nashville Predators (10-14-4)

Time: 7:30 p.m. MT

Watch: Altitude, TNT, HBO MAX

Listen: Altitude Sports Radio, 92.5 FM

Colorado Avalanche​

After a bummer result on Long Island which saw the Avalanche acquire their second regulation loss on the season, they crafted a back-to-back matinee sweep of the New York Rangers and Philadelphia Flyers over the weekend. It wasn’t pretty at times but they got the job done and in return kept their hold on the top spot of the NHL standings with the magical 48 points.

Almost all is right in the world of the burgundy and blue who have recently received Val Nichushkin and Joel Kiviranta back from injury. Both Scott Wedgewood and Gavin Brindley could draw into the lineup tonight as their returns are close as well and if not tonight, then soon.

Nathan MacKinnon continues to lead the league with 49 points but many talented players are close on his heels. He also leads the Rocket Richard race with 24 goals.

Projected Lineup

Artturi Lehkonen – Nathan MacKinnon – Martin Nečas

Gabe Landeskog – Brock Nelson – Victor Olofsson

Val Nichushkin – Jack Drury – Ross Colton

Parker Kelly – Zakhar Bardakov – Joel Kiviranta

Devon Toews – Cale Makar

Josh Manson – Brent Burns

Sam Girard – Sam Malinski

Update: Scott Wedgewood returns and starts, Martin Nečas missed morning skate with illness and is a game-time decision. Gavin Brindley is ready to return and should draw into the lineup for Nečas or someone scratched.

Wedgewood starts. Necas ill but should play. Brindley a possibility vs Nashville. @kylekeefetv microphone etiquette is flawless. #GoAvsGo pic.twitter.com/lC7MdV9Cji

— Conor McGahey (@ConorMcGahey) December 9, 2025

Nashville Predators​

Since their last meeting with Colorado a couple weeks ago, Nashville has enjoyed improved play as of late and have even picked up a few points in the standings. They had won four of their last five games but a 6-3 defeat on Saturday night to Carolina was a setback. Still, they have a hole to dig out of to get back in the playoff picture.

Leading the Predators in scoring at this juncture is actually old friend Ryan O’Reilly with 21 points. He’s really pumping up his trade value in doing so. Both Filip Forsberg and Luke Evangelista are right behind with 19 points each.

They say familiarity breeds contempt and that will be put to the test with not one but two games against the Avalanche this week. Nashville is clearly overmatched playing Colorado but a series of rematches in a short time frame doesn’t favor the superior team. We’ve seen the Avalanche fall victim to bad first periods and slow starts as of late, will Nashville continue to force that trend?

Projected Lineup

Steven Stamkos — Ryan O’Reilly — Luke Evangelista

Filip Forsberg — Erik Haula — Jonathan Marchessault

Reid Schaefer — Fedor Svechkov — Matthew Wood

Michael Bunting — Michael McCarron — Tyson Jost

Nicolas Hague — Roman Josi

Brady Skjei — Adam Wilsby

Nick Blankenburg — Michael McCarron

Goaltenders​

Scott Wedgewood’s health might be the biggest factor in determining who starts for the Avalanche. Trent Miner was sent back to the Colorado Eagles after the Flyers game and Wedgewood was deemed ready to go at morning skate, he is expected to start this evening.

Justus Annunen has seen the net a little more often for Nashville as of late, most recently in relief in the loss against Carolina. He also received a couple starts at the end of November so it’s possible he could be in net for this game but the Predators starter is clearly Juuse Saros and likely the best chance to thwart the Avalanche.

Follow along in the comments below!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/open...rado-avalanche-at-nashville-predators-730-p-m

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Morning Flurries: Nordiques sweaters coming to Montreal

Add one more Quebec Nordiques jersey night to the schedule as the NHL approved the Colorado Avalanche to wear their beautiful blue throwback threads on January 29th in Montreal. Even better, the Canadiens are going to wear their home reds for a glorious color-on-color matchup.

NHL has approved for the Avalanche to wear their blue Nordiques jerseys on Jan 29 at the Canadiens, who will wear their home reds at the Bell Centre. #GoAvsGo #GoHabsGo

— NHL News (@PuckReportNHL) December 9, 2025

The Board of Governors held their meetings at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs this week. Avalanche President of Hockey Operations Joe Sakic was on hand for a rare quote about the team as he details how last year’s playoff disappointment has been a motivator this season.

Avalanche driven by playoff disappointment against Stars, says Sakic https://t.co/meM13irvyk

— Nick Cotsonika (@cotsonika) December 9, 2025

Also from the meeting of the minds, the NHL is right on projection for $6.9 billion in revenues and therefore the salary cap increase is still expected to jump to $104 million for the 2026-27 season.

World Cup of Hockey host cities narrowed down to 16, two will be chosen. Plus revenue updates and more from BOG:https://t.co/vwdnXNHFba

— Dan Rosen (@drosennhl) December 9, 2025

The saga on the Olympic facilities in Milan is ongoing but if there’s a rink to skate on everyone still says the situation should be manageable.

Despite concerns over rink dimensions and ice quality, NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly doesn't see the issues as "insurmountable" ahead of the Olympics.@EricEngels has the story from the NHL Board of Governors meeting. https://t.co/rbEbwjVMYj

— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) December 9, 2025

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/morn...lurries-nordiques-sweaters-coming-to-montreal

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Recap: Avalanche fall in strange shootout to Predators

One last stop on a four-game road trip, the Colorado Avalanche were hoping to end the jaunt on a high note but that didn’t come to fruition as they lost in a shootout to the Nashville Predators by a score of 4-3. This one was a doozy with high drama in both the opening and closing minutes with a real lull in the middle.

Cale Makar scored his elusive power play goal to send the game into overtime with eight seconds remaining. Ryan O’Reilly netted the lone shootout marker to give Nashville the win.

The Game

It was an eventful start to say the least with four goals scored at the net front in the opening 10 minutes of the game. Brock Nelson took advantage of some lackadaisical defending to put the visitors up by one just a minute into the contest. Jonathan Marchessault gathered his own rebound off of the returning Scott Wedgewood to quickly tie the game for Nashville three minutes later. Ninety seconds after that Nelson gave one back with some poor coverage on Reid Schaefer. Finally, Artturi Lehkonen worked his magic at the net front to get the Avalanche back to an even score at 2-2 by the halfway mark. And that’s how the first period would end after the flurry of goals concluded.

The second period was a stark contrast as no goals were scored. Colorado received three power plays, just about all in a row at the end of the period but couldn’t convert so the game remained tied 2-2 after 40 minutes of play.

Action started to heat up again in the third period when Brady Skjei fired a low shot which went post-and-in just over the halfway point of the period. From there Nashville tried to shut the door, which almost worked until they took a penalty with under two minutes remaining. With the extra attacker the Avalanche flirted around the perimeter but a Cale Makar shot from the blue line finally found it’s way to the back of the net got his first power play goal of the season and sent the game into overtime with the score tied 3-3.

Nashville held a slight advantage in shots 5-4 in the extra frame as the play went back-and forth. The real drama ensued when the shootout began, however.

Ryan O’Reilly went first in the skills competition and put a tally on the board for Nashville. Martin Nečas missed his shot and then Filip Forsberg missed as well. But in the process Forsberg ran right over Scott Wedgewood who seemed a little stunned by the hard contact. Then Val Nichushkin’s shot was saved by Juuse Saros, Steven Stamkos missed his shot as well so it was up to Gabe Landeskog to give it one last shot for Colorado. Right before beginning his turn the officials notified the Avalanche bench that Wedgewood was being pulled by the concussion spotters and Mackenzie Blackwood was summoned to take his place in the Avalanche net. Landeskog then missed his shot and the game was over 4-3 in favor of Nashville.

Takeaways

The stars shone bright in this contest and nearly burned out. Cale Makar played over 30 minutes in this game Nathan MacKinnon over 28 minutes himself. Six forwards didn’t even get to the 13 minute mark. If you can’t trust your depth to beat the worst team in the league at the end of a long road trip do you truly have depth?

It’s curious as to why Gavin Brindley was taken off injured reserve but didn’t play in this contest. Yes, Martin Nečas was a game-time decision with illness and then eventually suited up but it shouldn’t take someone unable to play to get Brindley back in action. Zakhar Bardakov played five minutes in this game. If Brindley is really a key part of this lineup then why didn’t he play?

With his assist on the Lehkonen goal, Nathan MacKinnon became the first player in the NHL to score 50 points this season in his 900th career NHL game. MacKinnon was also first to the milestone last season as well. Congrats, Nate!

Upcoming

A meeting at Ball Arena with the defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers is on tap. The game will be nationally televised on ESPN at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, December 11th.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...alanche-fall-in-strange-shootout-to-predators

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Preview: Avalanche look to sweep the back-to-back against Philadelphia

After playing a matinee matchup against the New York Rangers yesterday, which saw the Avs win 3-2 in overtime thanks to a ridiculous goal from Nathan MacKinnon, Colorado looks to sweep this back-to-back against the Philadelphia Flyers here today. This will be the first of two regular-season meetings between these two teams.

Colorado Avalanche (20-2-6)​

As mentioned, the Avs wrapped up their regular-season series against the New York Rangers yesterday, as they won 3-2 in overtime, thanks to some heroics from Nathan MacKinnon. He made just a ridiculous move in overtime to freeze a defender, drag the puck back, and then put an insane backhand shot on net that I don’t think a lot of people initially thought actually went in. Regardless, Colorado battled hard in this game and earned another important two points in the standings.

Projected Lineup​

Artturi Lehkonen – Nathan MacKinnon – Martin Necas
Gabriel Landeskog – Brock Nelson – Ross Colton
Valeri Nichushkin – Jack Drury – Victor Olofsson
Parker Kelly – Zakhar Bardakov – Joel Kiviranta

Devon Toews – Cale Makar
Josh Manson – Brent Burns
Samuel Girard – Sam Malinski

Trent Miner
Mackenzie Blackwood

Philadelphia Flyers (15-8-3)​

The Flyers have been maybe one of the surprise teams to start the year, in a good way. They’ve been more competitive than I think a lot of people thought they would be, and because of that, they find themselves just two points back of the third spot in the Metropolitan Division because of how close the East is. This is a very high-skill team, and Colorado will need to keep Philly’s high-skill players off the score sheet if they want to sweep the back-to-back here today.

Projected Lineup​

Trevor Zegras – Christian Dvorak – Travis Konecny
Matvei Michkov – Sean Couturier – Owen Tippett
Nikita Grebenkin – Noah Cates – Bobby Brink
Nicolar Deslauriers – Rodrigo Abols – Garnet Hathaway

Nick Seeler – Travis Sanheim
Emil Andrae – Jamie Drysdale
Egor Zamula – Noah Juulsen

Samuel Ersson
Dan Vladar

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...o-sweep-the-back-to-back-against-philadelphia

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Recap: Colorado cruises to 6-2 victory over the Panthers

Tonight, the Colorado Avalanche welcomed the Florida Panthers into Denver after coming home from a road trip. This was the first of two regular-season matchups between these two teams, which the Avs won by a total score of 6-2 with goals from Sam Malinski, Brock Nelson, Gavin Brindley, Nathan MacKinnon Artturi Lehkonen and Gabe Landeskog.

Let’s take a look at all the action from tonight!

First Period​

Sam Malinski was the one to get the scoring started for Colorado in this game, and he snuck the puck past Florida netminder Daniil Tarasov just over a minute into the first period. Martin Necas would find Malinski in the slot with a beautiful cross-ice feed, and Malinski was able to sneak it past the goalkeeper.

Malinski squeeks one in early! pic.twitter.com/UG3tUs2jjz

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) December 12, 2025

Noah Gregor would then respond for the Panthers, as he came flying into the Avalanche zone down the wing, and managed to elevate the puck past Mackenzie Blackwood to tie the game at 1-1 before the halfway mark of the first period.

what a beauty for his FIRST as a cat pic.twitter.com/hXsSrGP8sv

— Florida Panthers (@FlaPanthers) December 12, 2025

Brock Nelson would the score the go-ahead goal for Colorado just before the end of the period, and what was ultimately the game-winning goal, as he battled in front of the Avalanche net and was able to just find some space between the goalie and the post, and poke the puck past Tarasov. Colorado held a 2-1 advantage at that time.

Brock battled in front pic.twitter.com/8JSzFfqade

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) December 12, 2025

Second Period​

Gavin Brindley would get in on the scoring action next, as Brent Burns once again turned back the clock, flew into the zone down the wing and put a shot on net, creating a big rebound for Brindley to jump on, as he was able to put it into a near empty net to go up 3-1.

Would you believe us if we said Brent Burns just got an assist to someone (Brindley) who wasn't born yet when he was drafted?

Because it's true. pic.twitter.com/eE8aparvI9

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) December 12, 2025

Soon after Brindley scored, Nathan MacKinnon continued to add to his absolutely ridiculous season and gave Colorado a three-goal lead, as he let the puck fly from the point, and managed to beat Tarasov clean.

It's what the Dogg does pic.twitter.com/gpcja7kN4v

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) December 12, 2025

Gavin Brindley would get on the score sheet again on this goal, as he sprung Artturi Lehkonen for a breakaway, and when you have nothing but time and space in front of the net, that one’s pretty easy for Lehkonen, and it was suddenly 5-1. The game was pretty much over by that point but why not add a little meaningless drama with a Martin Nečas power play goal which was challenged by Florida and called back due to an offside call. The second period ended with Colorado up 5-1.

Lehky on the breakaway! pic.twitter.com/4KnITM5iTj

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) December 12, 2025

Third Period​

Florida started off the period with an overturned goal of their own as Eetu Luostarinen had a kicked-in goal taken off the board. At this point Colorado could truly coast, but a little insurance is always nice, as Gabe Landeskog got on the board as he got to stare down an empty net, and that one is also pretty easy.

Landy adds on to the lead! pic.twitter.com/cmyq1kGcYm

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) December 12, 2025

Florida would get a garbage-time goal as well, as AJ Greer was able to make a ridiculous pass to Mackie Samoskevich, who would put the puck into an empty net, to arrive at the final score of 6-2. Also, Nathan MacKinnon received a penalty shot late in the third period and his shot was saved by Tarasov, not that the Avalanche needed to pad their victory even more, and the game was finally over.

Cats get one back pic.twitter.com/DV7aY9ZGha

— Florida Panthers (@FlaPanthers) December 12, 2025

Takeaways​

Let’s be honest, this game was over by the time the second period ended. Colorado got out to a really quick start in the first, and for a moment, this game looked like it might be a 3-1 win or a 4-3 overtime win after the Panthers responded and the Avs had to fight and claw a bit for the go-ahead goal. After the first period, though, Colorado just decided that the game was over, and scored accordingly, or that’s what it felt like anyway. In the third period, they were able to coast their way to another win and became the first team in the NHL to cross the 50-point threshold on the season. The one issue tonight, as it’s been for the past few games, was the power play once again. Martin Nečas dud technically score on the man advantage but Colorado officially went 0/3 on the night, Not that it rightly mattered in this game, given the final score, but the power play continued to struggle once again.

Upcoming​

Next up, the Colorado Avalanche get another shot at the Nashville Predators, as those two teams play again on Saturday at Ball Arena. Puck drop will be at 7:00 p.m. MT.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...rado-cruises-to-6-2-victory-over-the-panthers

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Arena plans hint at possible new Avalanche practice facility

The Kroenke Sports & Entertainment large-scale redevelopment plan of the area surrounding Ball Arena has yet to come to fruition but preparations are still moving forward, even if at a glacial pace. The newest leak of information hints at changes coming to Ball Arena itself.

The home of the Colorado Avalanche and Denver Nuggets isn't getting left behind as the teams' owners work to redevelop land around the arena. https://t.co/p6YhGJCQzV

— Denver Business Journal (@denbizjournal) November 29, 2025

In a report published by the Denver Business Journal in November uncovered first hints at a possible reality for a new practice facility for the Colorado Avalanche and Denver Nuggets due to construction details surrounding Ball Arena. In recent plans submitted by KSE there has been a new addition to the project called “Arena Expansion”.

In a formal site development plan for the first phase of the Ball Arena development, Ball Arena and the area directly surrounding the home of the Colorado Avalanche and Denver Nuggets is labeled with “Arena Expansion.”

There are no descriptions as to what arena expansion means in the plan. KSE said the company is identifying the best use of the arena and the space around it.

Ball Arena isn't getting left behind as plans are underway to redevelop the acres of parking lots surrounding it. https://t.co/2hGL8irqOP

— 9NEWS Denver (@9NEWS) December 5, 2025

The DBJ article goes on to speculate that this could mean evidence of the long-awaited new Avalanche practice facility, despite the vague response from KSE as to their vision for the space. This should be welcome news to fans of both teams as there’s been a need for updated facilities for quite a while. One reason in particular is that the Avalanche currently share a public rink with the community and the ice surface sees heavy use.

It is a great first step that something tangible for new team facilities may be on the horizon but we are still a long way away from these plans becoming realized or even defined. The first phase of the KSE redevelopment is expected to be completed within seven years and it’s unknown on any timeline for this “Arena Expansion”. Any news of forthcoming changes will be exciting and very much welcome, however.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/gene...t-at-possible-new-avalanche-practice-facility

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Preview: The Avs face Nashville in a Saturday Night Encore

The Colorado Avalanche face off against the Nashville Predators for the second time in three games tonight at Ball Arena to wrap up a quick two game homestand.

Yep, you read that right. The second time in three games.

That is not a typo.

Colorado Avalanche (22-2-7)​

The Opponent: Nashville Predators (12-14-4)

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

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

Listen: Altitude Sports Radio KKSE-FM 92.5 FM

Colorado Avalanche​

Tonight’s matchup against Nashville is the rubber match in the season series. The Avalanche won the first game at Bridgestone Arena on November 22 by a score of 3-0 on the second half of a back-to-back weekend of games. Mackenzie Blackwood stopped all 35 shots he faced, and Brent Burns scored what would prove to be the game-winning goal just 15 seconds into the contest. Nathan MacKinnon and Jack Drury added two empty-net goals late in the contest to secure the victory.

The second game, which took place this past Tuesday (again at Bridgestone Arena), a valiant effort from Cale Makar in the waning seconds of regulation forced overtime between both clubs, but Nashville would prevail in the shootout to secure a 4-3 decision. Scott Wedgewood, who stopped 28 of 31 shots in the game, didn’t have a strong start in this contest, but rebounded well as the game went on. He was on the receiving end of a collision in the shootout from former teammate Filip Forsberg, and was forced to leave the game after being pulled by a concussion spotter. Blackwood came in to relieve him, but Gabe Landeskog’s shootout attempt fell short, resulting in Blackwood never seeing facing a shot. Despite the unusual conclusion, the Avs did secure a point to maintain the top spot in the Central Division.

Prior to tonight’s contest, the Avalanche defeated the defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers by a score of 6-2 on Thursday night. On a night where the Avalanche honored the 1996 Stanley Cup-winning roster, the present-day Avalanche certainly echoed the strong play of their predecessors. Gavin Brindley made his return to the roster after missing the previous ten games with injury, and his impact was palpable as he scored what would prove to be the game-winning goal early in the second period. Nathan MacKinnon scored his 25th goal of the season and 392nd of his career, which broke Joe Sakic’s long-standing record for most goals scored since the franchise relocated from Quebec.

Fitting, on the night that the Avalanche honored the past, the present is looking pretty bright.

Projected Lineup​

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

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

Between the Pipes:
Mackenzie Blackwood
Scott Wedgewood

Nashville Predators​

Despite being last in the Central Division, Nashville has put together an admirable stretch of games of late. The Predators have won six of their last eight games, including the most recent matchup against Colorado this past Tuesday. Aside from a 5-2 loss to the Winnipeg Jets at Bridgestone Area on November 29, Nashville has scored no fewer than three goals over that time span.

Tonight marks the first of a two game road trip for Nashville, who come into Denver fresh off a 7-2 victory over St. Louis at Bridgestone Arena on Thursday evening. Steven Stamkos recorded his fifteenth hat trick of his career and accounted for four of the team’s seven goals on the evening. Luke Evangelista had three assists on the night, and Juuse Saros stopped 24 of 26 shots between the pipes.

Nashville’s lineup will have a slightly different look this evening compared to the previous matchup against Colorado. Defenseman Spencer Stastney (no relation to the other simiarly sounding family name) was traded to the Edmonton Oilers on Friday in exchange for a 3rd round pick in the 2027 NHL Draft. The twenty-five year old defenseman spent parts of the past three-plus seasons in Nashville, recording 3 goals and 15 assists over 81 games played for the Predators.

Nashville concludes its road trip with a return match against St. Louis at Enterprise Center on Monday evening…for the second time in three games.

Even when it comes to sports, the past is prologue.

Projected Lineup​

Forwards:
Steven Stamkos – Ryan O’Reilly – Luke Evangelista
Filip Forsberg – Erik Haula – Jonathan Marchessault
Reid Schaefer – Fedor Svechkov – Matthew Wood
Michael Bunting – Tyson Jost – Michael McCarron

Defense:
Nicolas Hague – Roman Josi
Brady Skjei – Adam Willsby
Nick Perbix – Nick Blankenberg

Between the Pipes:
Juuse Saros
Justus Annunen

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...avs-face-nashville-in-a-saturday-night-encore