RSS Avalanche Team Notes

[Colorado Avalanche]

Opinion: Kaprizov breaks the bank & Martin Necas just got more expensive

The news broke this morning that Kirill Kaprizov has indeed earned the largest contract in NHL history, inking a deal for a whopping $17 million AAV over 8 seasons with the Minnesota Wild. The news comes just about a month after reports of Kaprizov turning down what would have also been the largest contract in NHL history at $16 million AAV.

Wild leadership followed through on their rumblings of doing whatever it took to retain Kaprizov’s services, but will Colorado do the same as it pertains to Martin Necas, or will he be dealt just like Mikko Rantanen was?

8 MORE YEARS OF THE THRILL

Full details » https://t.co/M3RiI5ylvM pic.twitter.com/uezQzj3ntX

— Minnesota Wild (@mnwild) September 30, 2025

This market-busting deal sheds new light on those yet to be extended, and smack dab in the middle of that list is Avalanche winger Martin Necas. It goes without saying that top-end hockey players have just become more expensive, but how will this market adjustment affect Necas and the Colorado Avalanche?

Toodle-oo Team Friendly

I think anyone assuming that any player will take a “team-friendly” deal over the next five seasons is a bit naive. Martin Necas has nothing but leverage as we inch closer to the regular season, and any success he realizes with Colorado will only bolster his claim to elite status and subsequently drive up his cost. The same is true for any other pending free agents, and that crop currently includes Connor McDavid.

I think this season and the subsequent summer after will prove to be the most scene-shaking timeframe in the modern era of hockey. I do believe we see a number of the games’ most proven and prosperous talent playing for teams that we wouldn’t have ever expected. With all of that volatility on the table, I bet agents advise players differently than before in the sense that they will be far more willing to hit the open market. That will leave teams to choose whether to let them walk or deal said talent elsewhere.

The Price is Wrong

The Martin Necas debacle is just the Mikko Rantanen saga all over again, but I suppose that’s another article. I say that because in that situation, Colorado chose to deal Mikko for several reasons, but ultimately because they weren’t willing to pay him the reported $14 million that he asked for. The same is likely true for Colorado and Martin Necas, whose representation should advise him to ask for $11-12 million, especially now that Kaprizov would still be making $6 million more than that.

The why:

Rantanen wanted $14M+

The Avs simply couldn’t do that. MacKinnon already makes $12.5M and Makar will be making north of that in the near future

They tried getting his number down and Rantanen wouldn’t budge.

Rather than one last run with him the Avs & GM MacFarland…

— Drew Livingstone (@ProducerDrew_) January 25, 2025

If the Avalanche disagrees with the price, they have already demonstrated their willingness to move on. They can’t possibly have more loyalty and respect for Martin Necas than they did for Mikko Rantanen, so don’t be surprised if they once again procrastinate by way of trade.

Pay Up

All of this is to say that I think the Avs should swallow their pride and pay Necas his asking price in real time. Even if they think it’s inflated, they can lean on cap percentage logic and remind themselves that his price will go up every day that goes by. They can’t just keep kicking the can down the road because every time it’s kicked, actually picking it up gets more expensive — even if the can is now far less appealing.

With these cap growth assumptions, 8x$17M averages out to the same cap % that $12.7M had in the 2024-25 season,

— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) September 30, 2025

Using Nathan MacKinnon’s AAV as the benchmark is no longer a responsible or applicable tactic; therefore, let’s remove it from our consideration. The cost of retaining top-end talent continues to increase over time, and the Avs need to accept that fact and start paying up.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...the-bank-martin-necas-just-got-more-expensive

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Colorado Avalanche rally but fall to Dallas in preseason finale

Preseason contests are often dismissed as inconsequential, yet the Colorado Avalanche and Dallas Stars delivered a riveting spectacle at American Airlines Center, transforming the typically perfunctory finale of the exhibition slate into a genuine thriller.

For much of the night, the Stars dictated play, asserting their rhythm and tempo. The Avalanche, however, gradually found their footing in the second period and mounted a determined push. Victor Olofsson’s late third-period tally knotted the score at two, momentarily tilting the momentum. Dallas wasted little time in issuing a response—Colin Blackwell restored the lead shortly thereafter, sealing a 3–2 victory that punctuated the Stars’ impressive 5–1 preseason campaign, their lone setback having come against Colorado on September 27. The Avalanche, meanwhile, concluded their exhibition slate with a respectable 4–2 mark.

Tristen Nielsen and Olofsson paced the Avalanche offensively, each recording two points. Olofsson provided the dramatic late equalizer in the third period, while Nielsen played a key role as the primary setup man on that tally. Gavin Brindley and T.J. Tynan also contributed with an assist apiece, rounding out a well-distributed offensive performance.

Scott Wedgewood got the start in goal for Colorado, turning aside 11 of 13 shots before giving way to Trent Miner after the second period. Miner held steady in relief, stopping all 12 shots he faced to close out the night.

Dallas was paced by Jason Robertson, who recorded a goal and an assist, while Wyatt Johnston contributed two assists of his own. Arttu Hyry and Colin Blackwell each found the back of the net, and Jake Oettinger turned aside 21 of 23 shots to secure the victory in net.

What Happened

Dallas burst out of the gate with palpable energy, looking every bit the fresher, sharper team in the early going playing a mostly NHL lineup against Avalanche minor leaguers. The Stars capitalized at 6:15 of the opening frame when Arttu Hyry deftly redirected Adam Erne’s wraparound wrist shot from the bottom of the left circle, staking Dallas to an early 1–0 advantage.

Despite posting a strong preseason record, the Avalanche have consistently been hampered by their inability to stay out of the penalty box—a troubling trend that has persisted over the last six games. Saturday night proved no different.

Not long after Dallas opened the scoring, Zakhar Bardakov was sent off for hooking, followed in short order by a tripping call on Tristen Nielsen—a penalty that, to put it diplomatically, was debatable. Questionable or not, the sequence underscored a recurring issue for Colorado: discipline, or the lack thereof.

Early in the second period, Bardakov found himself in the box once again, this time for cross-checking Tyler Seguin. The penalty kill, buoyed by strong work from Wedgewood, weathered the storm through the first two infractions. On the third, however, the dam finally broke. At 3:59, Robertson slipped behind the defense and beat Wedgewood cleanly, extending Dallas’s lead to 2–0 and made Colorado pay for their mistakes.

FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT

Roughly four minutes later, tempers began to flare even further After a whistle, Parker Kelly gave Robertson a shove, prompting Robertson to respond with a right hand to the face. The officials quickly assessed matching minors, setting the stage for a stretch of 4-on-4 hockey.

The physicality only escalated from there. A few minutes later, Lian Bichsel cross-checked Matt Stienburg into the boards, and Stienburg immediately retaliated with a cross-check of his own before the two dropped the gloves. Bichsel opened the bout with a sharp right hand followed by a quick rabbit punch, asserting control early. Stienburg managed to land a wide, sweeping right, but the size disparity was evident—Bichsel tossed him around with ease.

Because both players initiated cross-checks prior to the fight, each received seven minutes in penalties: five for fighting and two for cross-checking.

Robertson found himself back in the penalty box later in the second period after tripping Joel Kiviranta, and this time Colorado made him pay. On the ensuing power play, Tristen Nielsen crashed the slot and buried a rebound off an Olofsson shot, cutting the deficit and injecting new life into the contest.

Down The Stretch

Following two frenetic periods, the third saw both teams largely return to a more measured, disciplined approach. After all, it is only preseason hockey, and risking an injury in an exhibition game would be silly.

As the clock wound down, Colorado gradually intensified its pressure, ratcheting up the pace with urgency. With just over five minutes remaining, the Avalanche struck a pivotal blow. Nielsen deftly evaded a check and threaded a precise pass to Olofsson, who promptly snapped a wrist shot past Oettinger to knot the score at 2–2. Nielsen’s evasive maneuver was critical—without it, the tying goal simply would not have materialized.

Yet the respite was short-lived. Barely 86 seconds later, Dallas regained the lead when Blackwell—who had famously netted the overtime winner against Colorado in Game 2 of last year’s First Round—buried a rebound off a Robertson shot. That strike proved decisive, securing a 3–2 victory for the Stars and capping off an exciting, high-octane affair.

Takeaways

These were mostly AHL guys and the Avalanche only had a small handful of regular starters but nonetheless, it was impressive to see the fight from this team. Dallas looked incredible at the start and Wedgewood was making great save after great save to keep them in the game. Having a great penalty kill is good, but again, penalties have been an issue on the AHL side for most of the preseason, but it’s a process.

Aside from his penalties, Bardakov was skating very well and he put himself in position to capitalize offensively. Even if he didn’t show up on the stat sheet, the effort was there. Bardakov always seems to find a way to be involved in the play, and that’s what we want to see from the 4C.

Defenseman Samuel Girard, who has been dealing with lower-body injury for the past month, made his preseason debut in this game. He delivered a steady performance, showing no hesitation to engage in board battles, which is a good sign. In recent practices, Girard had been eased back into action at a measured pace, suggesting that the cautious approach was precautionary rather than indicative of a lingering injury.

Behrens Hurt?

Concerns linger over Sean Behrens, who may be facing another setback. The defenseman, sidelined for the entirety of last season with a devastating knee injury, did not take a single shift in either the second or third period. His current status remains uncertain, and another significant injury could have serious implications for his development. We are hoping for the best, but updates will follow if information becomes available.

What’s Next

The Avalanche will open their regular season campaign against the Los Angeles Kings on Tuesday, October 7. The contest, part of a TNT triple-header, is scheduled for an 8:30 p.m. MT start and will be broadcast nationally.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...-rally-but-fall-to-dallas-in-preseason-finale

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

MHH Roundtable: Bold Predictions for the 2025-26 season

With the NHL season set to kick off in a matter of hours, we are ready to put some thoughts on paper including some of our boldest predictions!

Taking the whole season into account, other than Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar who will have the greatest offensive impact this season?

Adrian: My vote is on Val Nichushkin. I do believe he will get a long, hard look on the top line alongside Nathan MacKinnon and Martin Necas. His net-front presence and driving ability should bode well when accompanied by MacKinnon and Necas’ speed. I expect a ton of rebound and open net tallies for Big Val.

Jackie: I feel like Martin Necas is the easy answer here but is he going to be around the full season? Even if he makes it to just the trade deadline it still might be Necas. He has the task to fill those Mikko Rantanen sized shoes so for the Avalanche to continue to have a successful regular season Necas really needs to contribute a sizable portion of the offense.

Jess: For me, I think Ross Colton certainly has the potential to have a massive offensive impact this upcmoning season. It’s not exactly a secret that he’s been injured the past couple of seasons, but when he’s been healthy, he’s shown to be a great fit in this offense, and I expect him to have a massive impact offensively this year.

How many in-season trades will Chris MacFarland make?

Adrian: One really big one…

Jackie: Does five sound conservative at this point? Including the trade deadline, five seems realistic so that’s what I’ll go with.

Jess: Three is my lucky/favorite number, so that’s what I’ll rock with. On top of that, it also just feels like a plausible number in my opinion.

Ryan: One big trade followed by a smaller trade.

Predict where the Colorado Avalanche will finish in the regular season standings and the number of points?

Adrian: I think the Avs finish 2nd in the Central with 106 points. This will be the year of one-score victories as well.

Jess: I think they’ll finish 2nd in the Central but with 110 points, that’s just a nice, round number to predict.

Jackie: Each year over the last five seasons Colorado’s points percentage has declined. I expect that dip to continue but barring catastrophic injury I think this team can still get to 100 points and make the playoffs.

Ryan: I expect Colorado to finish 1st in the Central Division. However, there’s no guarantees in the playoffs.

Name one surprise team to both miss and make the NHL playoffs?

Adrian: Surprise team: Minnesota Wild. Tons of people forget that the Wild were among the hottest and most successful squads early in the 2024-25 campaign, and now that Kirill Kaprizov is healthy and extended, I think they follow up on that with another explosive start. If Kaprizov can stay healthy, they may have a shot at winning the Central.

Jackie: I’ll pick the Buffalo Sabres to finally do the thing and make the playoffs, it has to happen at some point and they actually have been close. I’ll add a bonus I’m getting the feeling the young Anaheim Ducks could have a miracle year. To miss the playoffs, the Washington Capitals are a team I like on the rise but growth isn’t always linear so sadly I’ll predict them to take a step back this season.

Jess: I’m going to agree with Jackie and go with the Sabres to finally make the playoffs. They were my dad’s childhood team, and I’d love to see them have success finally. To miss, I’ll go with the Blues. Maybe I’m just a hater, but I don’t think they’ll be as good as they were last year and go on the tear that they did. Furthermore, I could see the another team like the Mammoth doing better than them and taking that wild card spot that St. Louis had last year.

Ryan: Red Wings make the playoffs and the Blues miss. Detroit had one of the worst penalty kills in the history of the NHL last year, but they’ve done enough improvements over the offseason to put a band aid over it temporarily. Their offense will do most of the work and having John Gibson between the pipes doesn’t hurt, either.

State your boldest predictions for the season here!

Adrian: The Avalanche and Martin Necas will come to a stalemate due to market volitility and Necas along with a depth defender will be packaged for…

Jess: For a Colorado prediction, the Avs will get Necas signed, maybe I’m too optimistic (and I probably am), but I think everyone involved wants to get something done and understands the importance of getting it done. For a bold wider NHL prediction, I’ll say that the Edmonton Oilers will, for the third year in a row, fail to win the Stanley Cup, whether that means they make it to the finals or get knocked out before then. As long as their goaltending is an issue, I don’t see them getting it done.

Jackie: For the Avs, Sam Malinski will get traded by the deadline. Finland wins gold at the Olympics. Carolina finally wins the Stanley Cup.

Ryan: Sam Malinski gets dealt at the deadline and Marty Necas gets signed. If the Oilers decline this year, maybe they trade Connor McDavid…to the Red Wings…

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/mhh-...table-bold-predictions-for-the-2025-26-season

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Preview: The puck drops on a new season in Los Angeles

The Colorado Avalanche are back! Tonight, we will get our first glimpse at the new look Colorado Avalanche squad, which will feature two rookies on the fourth line, as Gavin Brindley and Zahkar Bardakov are poised to make their Avalanche debut on the first night of the 2025-26 NHL season. It starts with a showdown with the Los Angeles Kings on national television.

Colorado Avalanche: 0-0-0​

The Opponent: Los Angeles Kings 0-0-0

Time: 8:30 p.m. MT

Watch: ESPN

Listen: Altitude Sports Radio, 92.5 FM

ESPN's Mike Farrell produced and directed this amazing piece for our ESPN Triple Header tonight. A brilliant idea and flawless execution. There is nothing like hockey. Find a quiet spot and watch this. Stay present. Stay grateful. Keep doing hard things. Game 1 is here. pic.twitter.com/WmsMFJWWkQ

— BucciOT.Com (@Buccigross) October 7, 2025

Colorado Avalanche​

This year’s Avalanche squad has lofty goals and expectations, which should come as no surprise considering they are still employing Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar—two bona fide superstars. It will be the first puck drop featuring a healthy Gabe Landeskog since the 2022 regular season, and the Avalanche have added another veteran presence in Brent Burns on the back-end.

The proof will be in the pudding for Martin Necas, who was acquired via trading Mikko Rantanen, and the same is true for Colorado’s new set-and-forget second-line center, Brock Nelson, who represents another installment in Colorado’s attempts to fill the shoes of Nazem Kadri.

Speaking of proving yourself, Jack Drury will get his look at 3C, which Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar has made abundantly clear throughout camp, and with Logan O’Connor still on the mend, some young guns will get an honest look at NHL action.

Avalanche netminder MacKenzie Blackwood is still healing from an offseason injury, so I’d bet we get Scott Wedgewood tonight, but don’t fret, Avs fans. Wedgewood looked great in camp!

Projected Lineup:​

Artturi Lehkonen — Nathan MacKinnon — Martin Necas
Gabe Landeskog — Brock Nelson — Valeri Nichushkin
Ross Colton — Jack Drury — Viktor Olofsson
Parker Kelly — Zakhar Bardakov — Gavin Brindley

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

Scott Wedgewood
Trent Miner

Los Angeles Kings​

The Kings have started a Get One for the Gipper campaign with Anze Kopitar announcing that this will be his final season in the NHL after a lengthy and successful career. Quinton Byfield may have gotten off to a slow start in his NHL career, but 2024 and 2025 were great years for the young man, and he has emerged as a bona fide top-six forward and should be a staple of the Kings’ core for years to come.

Drew Doughty will bring his beard and experience to the Kings’ back end for yet another season with his partner Mikey Anderson, and that pair will have their hands full. In all honesty, the Kings are one of the older and less speedy squads on paper, so hopefully the Avalanche can take advantage of that.

You will see a familiar face in net for the Kings as Darcy Keumper will get the nod for LA. Kuemper logged 31 victories in 50 starts last season and will look to halt his former teammates.

Projected Lineup:​

Andrei Kuzmenko — Anze Kopitar — Adrian Kempe
Kevin Fiala — Quinton Byfield — Alex Laferrier
Warren Foegele — Phillip Danault — Trevor Moore
Jeff Malott — Alex Turcotte — Joel Armia

Mikey Anderson — Drew Doughty
Joel Edmunson — Brandt Clarke
Brain Duoulin — Cody Ceci

Darcy Kuemper
Anton Forsberg

Puck drop on the 2025-26 season is here!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...the-puck-drops-on-a-new-season-in-los-angeles

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

How the Avalanche can keep Martin Nečas and avoid a Mikko Rantanen repeat

Avalanche fans, here we are once more—facing that familiar, nagging dilemma.

Kirill Kaprizov signed the most lucrative contract in NHL history last week when he inked an eight-year, $136 million contract that runs through the 2033-34 season.

The consensus around the league is that this move could fundamentally alter the free-agent landscape. However, the Colorado Avalanche may be uniquely positioned to capitalize on the very upheaval that unsettles other organizations—particularly with regard to retaining future unrestricted free agent Martin Nečas.

The Nečas Situation

Nečas is, without question, entering the very heart of his prime. Now in the final year of the two-year, $13 million contract he first signed with the Carolina Hurricanes in 2024, his career trajectory has taken on new intrigue. That deal, once a straightforward extension, became a pivotal piece of one of the league’s most stunning trades: Nečas, packaged with Jack Drury, was sent to the Avalanche in exchange for superstar winger Mikko Rantanen.

Despite being a highly skilled winger, Nečas only managed to eclipse the point-per-game threshold for the first time in his six NHL seasons during 2024-25. In the years leading up to it, his numbers consistently fell short of that pace The sudden surge naturally raises a pressing question: was last season a true breakout, or merely an exception to the rule?

In truth, the answer is no. Nečas is not defined by a heavy or punishing forecheck, yet he has emerged as one of the NHL’s most improved players precisely because he now operates within a system that accentuates his strengths. His game is unapologetically offensive, driven first and foremost by his elite skating, which remains his most potent asset. Rather than wearing opponents down physically along the boards, he applies pressure through speed, angles, intelligent stick work, and sound positioning, routinely forcing defenders into rushed or poor decisions with the puck. Add to that a dangerous shot, and it’s clear why he has become such a weapon. Entering his first full season with the Avalanche—and with the benefit of playing alongside Nathan MacKinnon—Nečas is poised to build on the chemistry the two began to develop last year, offering yet another layer of growth to his already upward trajectory.

This isn’t just about money; it’s about being on a team that gives you the best chance of winning a championship. And quite frankly, Colorado needs Nečas as much as he needs them.

The Edmonton Oilers gave Leon Draisaitl an eight-year, $112 million contract. And he’s been paired with Connor McDavid for the last decade, two of the most offensively explosive players the NHL has seen in recent years and not only have they not won the Stanley Cup, but they’ve come up short two years in a row against a team with arguably less superstars, but with incredible depth from top to bottom.

Handing Kaprizov a record-breaking contract does not, in itself, guarantee the Minnesota Wild a legitimate path to the Stanley Cup. Time and again, history has demonstrated that championships are won through collective depth and balance, not the brilliance of a single star. The lone exception, of course, comes not on the ice but on the console—when someone boots up NHL 26 on rookie mode with the sliders tilted beyond recognition. But that, needless to say, doesn’t count.

All jokes aside, it remains astonishing that Kaprizov secured a $17 million deal given that he has only reached the 100-point threshold once in his career. By comparison, Nathan MacKinnon has eclipsed that mark in three consecutive seasons while earning $12.5 million annually. The discrepancy can be traced to several factors. Most notably, the Wild publicly declared that they would do whatever it took to keep Kaprizov in Minnesota—a stance that immediately weakened their negotiating position. Kaprizov’s camp seized on that leverage, pressed their advantage, and, in effect, said: “Show us the money.” A second factor lies in the evolving dynamics of the NHL’s salary landscape. The league’s salary cap has risen from $88 million to $95 million this season, with further increases projected to $104 million in 2026‑27 and $113.5 million in 2027‑28. In this context, it becomes increasingly likely that similarly lucrative contracts will be awarded to the league’s elite talent.

Nečas Will Have A Breakout Campaign

The Avalanche must do everything within reason to retain Nečas within reason. If his camp demands something in the $16 million range, take a hike. That won’t happen. Currently, Nečas is an exceptionally talented player, just shy of entering the league’s elite echelon, yet he appears poised to make that leap. Last season, he established a career high with 83 points, comprising 27 goals and 56 assists. Considering his consistent year-over-year progression and the fact that 2024‑25 marked his apex to date, it is entirely plausible to anticipate Nečas producing between 92 and 111 points in the upcoming season.

That said, securing Nečas on a deal in the $11 to $12 million range would represent a clear victory for the Avalanche. Let’s say Nečas starts hitting 125-130 points by the third or fourth year of a hypothetical contract extension with Colorado. That’s a win for everyone Nevertheless, it is crucial that the organization navigates this negotiation wisely and avoids repeating the missteps made in the Mikko Rantanen situation.

Patience Is A Virtue

The Avalanche appear inclined to exercise greater patience with Nečas, and for several reasons. Foremost, his talent is undeniable; yet what truly distinguishes his position is his low-maintenance demeanor. He arrived punctually for training camp, he didn’t hold out, and he’s been present, professional, and sharp. Teams don’t forget holdouts. They take note, they build grudges, they lose their patience. Just ask Sergei Fedorov.

Should Nečas decide to pursue the maximum payday and test unrestricted free agency, that path remains entirely possible. Still, there is little question that Colorado’s system offers the environment most conducive to maximizing his talent and career trajectory. Hopefully both sides come to a deal that will keep him in Colorado for the considerable future.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/gene...artin-necas-and-avoid-a-mikko-rantanen-repeat

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Recap: Nečas Scores Twice as Avalanche Dominate Kings in Season Opener

The 2025-26 season is officially here, and the Colorado Avalanche kicked it off with a Marty Party.

Marty Nečas netted a pair of goals, while Cale Makar and Nathan MacKinnon each registered two assists, propelling the Colorado Avalanche to a commanding 4–1 victory over the Los Angeles Kings in their season opener Tuesday night at Crypto.com Arena. Scott Wedgewood turned aside 24 shots to anchor the win. Artturi Lehkonen contributed a goal and an assist and Sam Malinski also scored for Colorado.

The game opened with a bruising, hard-nosed first period, as the Kings leaned heavily on their physicality to dictate the early tempo. The Avalanche, however, weathered the storm with composure and responded emphatically in the second period, netting three of their four goals to seize control. The third period brought its share of drama, with a flurry of penalties and heated skirmishes adding intrigue, but from the middle frame onward, Colorado’s superiority was unmistakable.

Kevin Fiala scored the lone goal for Los Angeles and Darcy Kuemper made 19 saves.

First Period

Within the opening three minutes, Nečas was leveled by a sharp, well-timed check from Trevor Moore — a play that set an immediate physical tone for the evening.Moments later, Quinton Byfield delivered a solid hit on Josh Manson, asserting Los Angeles’ commitment to pressure along the boards.Ross Colton also absorbed a heavy shoulder check and was slow to get up, underscoring the intensity of the early exchanges.At the other end, Wedgewood stood tall, turning aside Anže Kopitar’s quick-release wrist shot off a defensive turnover.

The Avalanche nearly capitalized on transition moments of their own, as rookie Gavin Brindley broke free for a clean breakaway, only to be denied by Kuemper’s poised blocker save.

Late in the period, Manson delivered a textbook shoulder check on Warren Foegele along the bench, a clean and forceful play that drew an immediate response from Jeff Malott. Leaping over the boards to defend his teammate, Malott engaged Manson in a spirited bout — landing a few right hands before Manson wrestled him to the ice to end the altercation. Both players received five-minute majors for fighting, though Malott’s decision to leave the bench earned him an additional unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, granting Colorado a power play in the aftermath. However, they failed to score on the opportunity and the period ended in a 0-0 tie.

Second Period

The Avalanche overwhelmed the Kings with their speed in a one-sided second frame.

Just 48 seconds into the period, Nečas broke the deadlock with a blistering wrist shot that beat Kuemper cleanly, giving Colorado a 1–0 lead. The play began with Devon Toews orchestrating the breakout, feeding Lehkonen, who in turn left the puck for MacKinnon at center ice. MacKinnon carried it deep into the Kings’ zone, circled behind the net, and threaded a perfect pass to Nečas, left unchecked in the slot — where he wasted no time firing the puck past Kuemper.

Colorado extended its lead roughly six minutes later when Sam Malinski corralled the puck at the blue line and threaded a wrist shot through heavy traffic, beating Kuemper cleanly.

With just under five minutes remaining in the period, Lehkonen made it 3–0, pouncing on a loose puck after Kuemper failed to control a Makar shot. Despite being shoved from behind by Cody Ceci as he released the puck, the Finnish winger stayed with the play and buried the chance while tumbling to the ice—a gritty finish emblematic of his relentless style.

As the second period wound down, the Kings nearly found their equalizer in the final minute. Alex Turcotte corralled a loose puck in the neutral zone and sliced through Colorado’s defense to create a prime scoring opportunity. Bearing down on Wedgewood, Turcotte tried to slip a quick shot low to the blocker side, but Wedgewood read the play brilliantly — extending his right pad in a timely, composed save to preserve both the shutout and the Avalanche’s momentum.

Third Period

The third period devolved into more of a parade to the penalty box than a display of structured hockey. Colorado ultimately edged Los Angeles in infractions, committing four to the Kings’ three. The fourth penalty of the frame proved particularly eventful. After Colton absorbed a hit from behind and struggled to regain his balance, Fiala inexplicably delivered a swipe to Colton’s face—earning one of the silliest penalties you’ll ever see in an NHL game.

To the dismay of the Crypto.com Arena faithful, Colorado promptly capitalized on the ensuing power play. With 9:17 left in regulation, Nečas uncorked another blistering wrist shot from the right circle, beating Kuemper cleanly to extend the Avalanche lead to 4–0. The sequence began with Brock Nelson winning a rare offensive zone faceoff, after which Makar deftly slid the puck to Nečas, stationed up high. Nečas glided into the lane with purpose before ripping his second goal of the night, punctuating Colorado’s dominance.

But the shenanigans were far from over. MacKinnon was whistled for interference after colliding with Brandt Clarke, a call he immediately contested. His frustration stemmed from what he believed was a missed infraction moments earlier—replay showed Clarke cross-checking Lehkonen from behind, sending him crashing hard into the boards.

Manson took exception and retaliated against Clarke, earning an additional penalty that gave Los Angeles a 5-on-3 power play. The Kings capitalized with 4:53 remaining, as Fiala finally broke through to spoil Wedgewood’s shutout bid. Clarke would later return to the box with just a few minutes left in regulation after cross-checking Lehkonen a second time.

And with that, the curtain closed on a thrilling and entertaining season opener for the Avalanche in this 4-1 victory.

Takeaways

It was a statement night for Nečas, who is set to become an unrestricted free agent at season’s end. Simply put: pay the man. He’s made it clear he wants to remain in Colorado, and performances like this only strengthen the case for keeping him in burgundy and blue.

From start to finish, it was a composed and convincing effort. The Kings opened with a barrage of heavy hits, but the Avalanche stayed poised, weathered the storm, and took control in the second period—dominating the pace before chaos erupted in the third. A strong, decisive win. Now, it’s time to head home and keep the momentum rolling.

What’s Next?

The Avalanche (1-0) take on the Utah Mammoth (0-0) Thursday night at Ball Arena. Puck drop is at 7 p.m. local time.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...-as-avalanche-dominate-kings-in-season-opener

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Open Thread: Colorado Avalanche vs. Utah Mammoth (7 p.m.)

The Avalanche are undefeated after thwarting the LA Kings in their own barn, and now it’s time for the home opener at Ball Arena. The Utah Mammoth and their new brand hope to spoil Colorado’s home debut in the first game of their regular season. Will the Mammoth survive the storm of a frenzied crowd and seemingly loaded Avalanche team? The hype is real, and the thunder rolls.

Colorado Avalanche: 1-0-0​

The Opponent: Utah Mammoth 0-0-0

Time: 7 p.m. MT

Watch: Altitude, Altitude+

Listen: Altitude Sports Radio, 92.5 FM

Colorado Avalanche​

We got our first glimpse of Bednar’s vision for the forward group on Tuesday, which featured a young Gavin Brindley but surprisingly no Zakhar Bardakov, who appeared to be a shoo-in after camp. Bardakov may get the young guy spot tonight, but things went so well against LA that you almost wonder if Bednar lets it ride.

When I say the things went well for Colorado on Tuesday, that’s almost putting it lightly. The Kings aren’t presenting as a perennial powerhouse, but what impressed me was the defensive accomplishment Colorado stunted in the second period, all starting with Josh Manson’s thunderous hit on Warren Foegele. They were quick to loose pucks and excellent at forcing turnovers in the neutral zone. Colorado’s reputation as a gritty and stingy defensive team would, in my opinion, further validate Stanley Cup aspirations.

On top of that, we saw a two-goal performance from Martin Necas, a vintage Lehky goal off the magic of Makar, and Nathan MacKinnon distributing the puck like Nikola Jokic does the basketball, all on national television.

Coach Bednar had this to say regarding Cale Makar’s move on the blue line, “Whoa.”

I said it during the game that one thing is for sure —this team is fun.

Jared Bednar talking about Cale Makar via @AltitudeSR:

"How did he get through that seam so quickly?"

Mentioned he's already looked around at his fellow coaches and said "whoa" in response to Makar doing his thing on the blue line multiple times this season.#GoAvsGo

— Adrian Hernandez (@AdoHernandez27) October 8, 2025

I think Wedgewood would have gotten a shutout in the first game if not for Brandt Clarke’s third-period antics. MacKinnon took a penalty, sticking up for Lehkonen, who Clarke cross-checked dangerously. Shortly after, Manson went off for the same reason, and LA cashed in on the 5-on-3. Otherwise, Scott was brilliant and proved plenty capable of manning the helm while MacKenzie Blackwood gets squared away. He should get the start again tonight.

Projected Lineup:​

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

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

Scott Wedgewood
Trent Miner

Utah Mammoth​

The UHC will forever be known as the Utah Mammoth as of this season, and the Avalanche will be throwing them a bizarre welcome party. So glad you could make it! Over here, we have the world’s most electrifying forward for you to keep track of. If you’d like to enjoy a dose of Norris Calliber defending, please see Cale Makar. If you’re looking for exemplary leadership and character, Gabe Landeskog is the one to watch. Don’t like any of that? Too bad!

A new Ice Age dawns. Introducing Utah Mammoth. #TusksUp pic.twitter.com/B2yuoflDRt

— Utah Mammoth (@utahmammoth) May 7, 2025

All jokes aside, the Mammoth have made blips on some pundits’ radar as a potential dark-horse playoff team.

They have the bones of the Arizona Coyotes squad from a few years ago, but have since added some young and promising talent. That talent has raised expectations in Utah, who will have to do their best to stay in the hunt while playing in arguably the league’s most competitive division.

The Mammoth may have found their netminder in Karel Vejmelka, who has been in the Coyotes/Utah system since 2021 after playing Czech hockey for five years. Last season was by far his most successful in North America, in which he posted a 2.58 GAA and 9.04 SV%.

Playing the Avalanche will prove to be a litmus test for the Mammoth and could pose a real opportunity for springboarding their season early on. Will they send the rest of the Central an early statement?

Projected Lineup:​

Dylan Guenther — Logan Cooley — JJ Peterka
Clayton Keller — Jack McBain — Nick Schmaltz
Lawson Crous — Barrett Hayton — Kailer Yamamoto
Brandon Tanev — Kevin Stenlund — Michael Carcone

Mikhail Sergachev — John Marino
Nate Schmidt — Sean Durzi
Ian Cole — Dmitri Simashev

Karel Vejmelka
Vitek Vanecek

Barrett Hayton and Kevin Stenlund both have a “game-time decision” status.

Opening night at Ball Arena is finally here!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/open...read-colorado-avalanche-vs-utah-mammoth-7-p-m

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Avs remain undefeated with 2-1 win despite shaky performance

DENVER — Scott Wedgewood saved the night.

An ugly win is still a win.

Ross Colton electrified the crowd with a dazzling early goal, and Nathan MacKinnon broke the deadlock early in the third to lift the Colorado Avalanche to a gritty 2–1 win over the Utah Mammoth on Thursday night at Ball Arena. But the true hero was Wedgewood. Despite a slew of defensive miscues throughout the night, Wedgewood stood tall, delivering one brilliant save after another to keep Colorado’s perfect start to the season intact.

“Stone Cold Wedgewood”

Colorado opened the scoring 10:57 into the first period with a beautifully executed sequence that showcased their precision and pace. Samuel Girard hit Victor Olofsson with a glorious stretch pass who then carried the puck through the neutral zone with speed, gaining the offensive zone before lofting a deft saucer pass to Jack Drury at the left faceoff dot. In one fluid motion, Drury redirected the puck across the slot to Ross Colton, who hammered a one-timer top shelf for the finish. The crisp, three-man passing play ignited the crowd and set the tone for the night. Colorado finished the first period holding onto that 1-0 lead.

In the second period it was crucial that Wedgewood delivered a commanding performance between the pipes turning aside a barrage of chances with poise and precision. Locked in from the opening puck drop, he appeared untouchable—calm, composed, and utterly dialed in. The only puck to elude him came on a sharp power-play strike from Dylan Guenther. After Utah won the draw, Clayton Keller immediately fed Guenther a one-timer and he destroyed it from just inside the blue line to tie the game at one. And that is how the first 40 minutes of play ended.

While things may have been tense early in the third period, MacKinnon scored a power play goal 2:53 into the third to give the Avalanche the lead and ultimately the 2-1 victory. Utah pulled their goaltender late for the extra attacker but it didn’t change the score.

Time and again, Wedgewood challenged shooters aggressively, stepping out to the top of the crease on multiple breakaways to shrink shooting lanes and dictate the play. He finished the night with a stellar .969 save percentage and stopped 31 of 32 shots in a virtuoso goaltending display. Just before Guenther scored, a turnover from Colorado allowed the streaky winger to go on a breakaway, only to be turned away by Wedgewood. Guenther had a team-high seven shots on goal for the Mammoth. Despite improving to 2-0 on the season, it was a sloppy game from Colorado as they got outshot 33-27.

Takeaways

The second period was a dismal stretch for the Avalanche, marked by a lack of offensive execution and costly mistakes. Colorado managed just four shots on goal over the entire frame—despite earning two power-play opportunities that failed to produce any results. Sloppy puck management compounded the issue, as a string of turnovers repeatedly left Wedgewood to bail the team out in difficult situations. Realistically, this could have been a 5–2 defeat if not for a few timely saves. A win is still a win, but the performance underscored plenty of areas that will demand immediate attention moving forward.

Upcoming

A big early season showdown when the Dallas Stars come to town at 7:00 p.m. back at Ball Arena on Saturday, October 11th.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...feated-with-2-1-win-despite-shaky-performance

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Meet the “New” Voice of Mile High Hockey: Matthew Edwards

The start of a new hockey season almost feels like the start of a new school year: you reunite with a bunch of friends, talk about the new class schedule, wonder who that new teacher was that got hired, and reflect on how last year turned out before turning your focus to what’s on the horizon.

You’d spot some faces you may not recognize right away. This could be their first year attending your school, or making a return after a year or two studying abroad.

After spending the last several years away, I am the student coming back to his old stomping grounds: My name is Matthew Edwards, and today marks my return to Mile High Hockey.

I’ve followed the Avalanche since their first championship run in 1996, and have been an Avalanche season ticket holder for the past decade. I’ve experienced highs, such the Avs unbeaten streak in January 2022, and bemoaned a few lows over the years, none more trying than the nightmarish 2016-2017 season.

That disastrous forty-eight point season never diminished my love for the Avs. In fact, it only made me want to see their eventual resurgence all the more. Watching them win their third Stanley Cup five years later, then see Gabe Landeskog skate the Stanley Cup on Ball Arena ice at the start of the 2022-2023 season, made that journey all the more worth it.

I first joined Mile High Hockey community back in the early 2010s, and even posted a few articles back then. I lived and died with many Avs fans as Joe Sakic rode off into retirement and Peter Forsberg’s ankle betrayed his final NHL comeback, only to see the likes of Matt Duchene, Ryan O’Reilly, Paul Stastny, and Milan Hejduk usher in the #WhyNotUs era (which also met an unfortunately dismal end).

I joined several MHH veterans to launch Burgundy Review, formerly Burgundy Rainbow (site OGs know this long-standing MHH meme well) in 2017. This was my first real crack at voicing my opinions on the Avs out into the world as part of a website staff writer. To this day, I still hold BR’s site record for most viewed article on the Avalanche’s Adidas jersey refresh that took place before the start of the 2017-2018 season. I’m quite proud of that accomplishment and even now, it remains one of my favorite articles I’ve ever written.

I’m now the caretaker of Burgundy Review, which had expanded my role from providing live coverage of Avalanche home and road games (and the occasional Colorado Eagles or D.U. Pioneer games) to production and host duties for BR’s Burgundy Radio podcast. It’s a challenge which has been daunting, but much like the Avs journey from bottom-feeders to respected champions, it has been a memorable journey.

My journey has now come full circle, and much like the start of a new school year, I’m excited for what’s to come.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/general/58438/meet-the-new-voice-of-mile-high-hockey-matthew-edwards

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Preview: The Mammoth roll in for opening night at Ball Arena

The Avalanche are undefeated after thwarting the LA Kings in their own barn, and now it’s time for the home opener at Ball Arena. The Utah Mammoth and their new brand hope to spoil Colorado’s home debut in the first game of their regular season. Will the Mammoth survive the storm of a frenzied crowd and seemingly loaded Avalanche team? The hype is real, and the thunder rolls.

HAPPY HOME OPENER, AVS FAITHFUL! pic.twitter.com/FWmt13JsXv

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) October 9, 2025

Colorado Avalanche: 1-0-0​

The Opponent: Utah Mammoth 0-0-0

Time: 7 p.m. MT

Watch: Altitude, Altitude+

Listen: Altitude Sports Radio, 92.5 FM

Colorado Avalanche​

We got our first glimpse of Bednar’s vision for the forward group on Tuesday, which featured a young Gavin Brindley but surprisingly no Zakhar Bardakov, who appeared to be a shoo-in after camp. Bardakov may get the young guy spot tonight, but things went so well against LA that you almost wonder if Bednar lets it ride.

When I say the things went well for Colorado on Tuesday, that’s almost putting it lightly. The Kings aren’t presenting as a perennial powerhouse, but what impressed me was the defensive accomplishment Colorado stunted in the second period, all starting with Josh Manson’s thunderous hit on Warren Foegele. They were quick to loose pucks and excellent at forcing turnovers in the neutral zone. Colorado’s reputation as a gritty and stingy defensive team would, in my opinion, further validate Stanley Cup aspirations.

On top of that, we saw a two-goal performance from Martin Necas, a vintage Lehky goal off the magic of Makar, and Nathan MacKinnon distributing the puck like Nikola Jokic does the basketball, all on national television.

Coach Bednar had this to say regarding Cale Makar’s move on the blue line, “Whoa.”

I said it during the game that one thing is for sure —this team is fun.

Jared Bednar talking about Cale Makar via @AltitudeSR:

"How did he get through that seam so quickly?"

Mentioned he's already looked around at his fellow coaches and said "whoa" in response to Makar doing his thing on the blue line multiple times this season.#GoAvsGo

— Adrian Hernandez (@AdoHernandez27) October 8, 2025

I think Wedgewood would have gotten a shutout in the first game if not for Brandt Clarke’s third-period antics. MacKinnon took a penalty, sticking up for Lehkonen, who Clarke cross-checked dangerously. Shortly after, Manson went off for the same reason, and LA cashed in on the 5-on-3. Otherwise, Scott was brilliant and proved plenty capable of manning the helm while MacKenzie Blackwood gets squared away. He should get the start again tonight.

Projected Lineup:​

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

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

Scott Wedgewood
Trent Miner

Utah Mammoth​

The UHC will forever be known as the Utah Mammoth as of this season, and the Avalanche will be throwing them a bizarre welcome party. So glad you could make it! Over here, we have the world’s most electrifying forward for you to keep track of. If you’d like to enjoy a dose of Norris Calliber defending, please see Cale Makar. If you’re looking for exemplary leadership and character, Gabe Landeskog is the one to watch. Don’t like any of that? Too bad!

A new Ice Age dawns. Introducing Utah Mammoth. #TusksUp pic.twitter.com/B2yuoflDRt

— Utah Mammoth (@utahmammoth) May 7, 2025

All jokes aside, the Mammoth have made blips on some pundits’ radar as a potential dark-horse playoff team.

They have the bones of the Arizona Coyotes squad from a few years ago, but have since added some young and promising talent. That talent has raised expectations in Utah, who will have to do their best to stay in the hunt while playing in arguably the league’s most competitive division.

The Mammoth may have found their netminder in Karel Vejmelka, who has been in the Coyotes/Utah system since 2021 after playing Czech hockey for five years. Last season was by far his most successful in North America, in which he posted a 2.58 GAA and 9.04 SV%.

Playing the Avalanche will prove to be a litmus test for the Mammoth and could pose a real opportunity for springboarding their season early on. Will they send the rest of the Central an early statement?

Projected Lineup:​

Dylan Guenther — Logan Cooley — JJ Peterka
Clayton Keller — Jack McBain — Nick Schmaltz
Lawson Crous — Barrett Hayton — Kailer Yamamoto
Brandon Tanev — Kevin Stenlund — Michael Carcone

Mikhail Sergachev — John Marino
Nate Schmidt — Sean Durzi
Ian Cole — Dmitri Simashev

Karel Vejmelka
Vitek Vanecek

Barrett Hayton and Kevin Stenlund both have a “game-time decision” status.

The home opener is finally here!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...mmoth-roll-in-for-opening-night-at-ball-arena

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Open Thread: Colorado Avalanche vs. Dallas Stars (7:00 p.m. MT)

After their home opener on Thursday night, which saw the Colorado Avalanche take on the Utah Mammoth, the Avs remain perfect on the season, as they defeated Utah by a final score of 2-1. Tonight, they take on a team that they’ve gotten, for better or for worse, all too familiar with in the past couple of seasons, as the Dallas Stars come to Denver for a divisional matchup. This will be the first regular season game between these two teams.

Colorado Avalanche: 2-0-0​

The Opponent: Dallas Stars (1-0-0)

Time: 7:00 p.m. MT

Watch: Altitude Sports, KTVD-TV (My20), Victory+, ESPN+

Listen: Altitude Sports Radio, 92.5 FM

Colorado Avalanche​

Up till this point, the Avs have looked pretty darn good in the two games that they’ve played against the LA Kings and the Utah Mammoth. Everything’s just been clicking for Colorado in these two games so far. Your superstars have done superstar things of course, with Cale Makar walking a Kings defener at the blueline on opening night, and Nathan MacKinnon having the game-winning goal for the Avs against the Mammoth in the home opener. On top of that, however, you’ve gotten some pretty solid depth production as well, with your third line scoring an absoltuely gorgeous goal to get Colorado on the scoreboard first on this past Thursday night.

And then there’s the elephant in the room, in the best way possible, which is Scott Wedgewood. The general thought going into him starting for Colorado in the absense of Mackenzie Blackwood was tht he’d certainly be able to hold his own and give the Avs a chance to win games. That being said, I don’t think anyone really anticipated him playing at such a high level through these two games. He’s been able to bail Colorado out at just about every turn in these two games, with his only two allowed goals coming on the powerplay, I just don’t know how you can’t be happy with his performance. While you’d obviously like the Avs to play and score at such a level that they don’t need Wedgewood bailing them out at every turn, it definitely feels good to have such high confidence in your goaltender, if and when breakdowns inevitably happen at one point or another. Colorado will certainly need Wedgewood to perform well again tonight against an insanely talented, and deep, Dallas Stars team.

Projected Lineup​

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

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

Scott Wedgewood
Trent Miner

Dallas Stars​

Dallas comes into this game off of a 5-4 win over the Winnipeg Jets, which saw the Stars have a 5-1 lead over the Jets with about 10 minutes left in regularion, before the Jets would score three unanswered goals to pull within one. As mentioned earlier, this Dallas team is one that Colorado has become all too familiar with over the past couple of seasons, as this is the team that has eliminated Colorado in the playoffs the past two seasons.

If you’re Colorado, it might be encouraging that Winnipeg was able to make a comeback bid late in the third period during this game, and ultimately pull within one goal. And while that optimism might be founded, make no mistake, this is not a team that you want to play from behind against, under any circumstances. Dallas is very much a legitemate Stanley Cup contendor this season, as they have been the last few seasons, and they can definitely play effective “bend don’t break” hockey, which is what they did against Winnipeg to seal the win. This is also a team who is very well balanced across all four lines and all three defensive pairings, and the Avs will need their depth to make plays like they did against Utah to keep up with the Stars. They have a very good starting goaltender in Jake Oettinger as well, hence the mention of Wedgewood needing to keep up his current level of play. This is a team that is overall very well balanced, and that has no insane weakesses on their roster. This will be a very tough litmus test early in the season for the Avalanche. Hopefully, they’re up for the task.

Projected Lineup​

Jason Robertson – Roope Hintz – Mikko Rantanen
Wyatt Johnston – Matt Duchene – Tyler Seguin
Mavrik Bourque – Sam Steel – Colin Blackwell
Justin Hryckowian – Radek Faksa – 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...colorado-avalanche-vs-dallas-stars-700-p-m-mt

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Recap: Rantanen Haunts Former Team in 5–4 Shootout Thriller

DENVER — Marty Nečas and Nathan MacKinnon each registered three-point performances, but even their offensive brilliance couldn’t exorcise Colorado’s lingering nemesis.

The Dallas Stars once again proved to be the Avalanche’s stumbling block. Mikko Rantanen and Jason Robertson scored shootout goals, Jake Oettinger stoned MacKinnon on Colorado’s final shot, and the Stars fended off the Avalanche for a 5-4 victory Saturday night at Ball Arena.

Jake Oettinger was superb between the pipes, turning aside 35 shots through regulation and overtime and adding two more stops in the shootout to backstop Dallas to victory. His performance spoiled a milestone evening for veteran defenseman Brent Burns, who became just the eighth defenseman in NHL history to appear in 1,500 games, while also extending his ironman streak to 928 consecutive games—the longest active run in the league and the fourth-longest in NHL history. Burns also notched his first point in an Avalanche sweater during the game.

Thomas Harley led the way offensively for Dallas with a goal and an assist, while Nathan Bastian and Robertson struck 3:03 apart in the second period to erase Colorado’s early lead and give the Stars a 3–2 advantage.

Rantanen, who famously buried a third-period hat trick to eliminate his former team in Game 7 of last spring’s first round playoff series, once again proved to be some form of kryptonite. The Finnish winger scored the game-winning goal in the shootout to hand Dallas yet another victory over Colorado.

Scott Wedgewood had an up-and-down night, but finished with 18 saves and added one save in the shootout for the Avalanche.

First Period

Colorado finally started a game with some jump and controlled the puck early. Eight minutes into the contest, Valeri Nichushkin streaked down the right wing and snapped a wrist shot that rang cleanly off the post, a sharp warning of Colorado’s early intent. Moments later, Dallas defenseman Lian Bichsel was whistled for hooking Brock Nelson, sending the Avalanche to the game’s first power play.

Although the Avs were unable to break through on the man advantage, they generated a flurry of quality chances, repeatedly testing Oettinger but failing to solve him.

Shortly after the Stars killed the penalty, Josh Manson was assessed a high-sticking minor against Wyatt Johnston. A closer look at the replay revealed Manson had aimed to finish a check on Johnston’s shoulder but misjudged as Johnston juked at the last moment, resulting in incidental contact. Colorado’s penalty killers held firm, and the momentum swung back moments later when Harley was sent off for cross-checking Marty Nečas.

Once again, Colorado’s power play buzzed but couldn’t finish. Nelson made a diving effort to keep the puck alive, MacKinnon unleashed a one-timer from the left circle that Oettinger denied with his blocker, and another MacKinnon attempt from the backdoor slipped through Oettinger’s legs only to ping off the post. Cale Makar’s one-timer was also deflected just wide.

Dallas struck first late in the period when Harley one-timed a pass from Rantanen past an outstretched Wedgewood, giving the Stars a 1–0 lead heading into the intermission.

Second Period

The middle frame began with immediate drama. Just ten seconds in, Rantanen was penalized for high-sticking Makar in the face, prompting a brief but heated exchange between former teammates Rantanen and MacKinnon.

Colorado finally capitalized on the ensuing power play. MacKinnon threaded a cross-ice feed to Nečas, who wired a wrist shot top shelf from the right doorstep over a sprawling Oettinger to tie the game 1–1.

Tempers flared shortly afterward when Ross Colton leveled Miro Heiskanen with a heavy check, drawing a response from Justin Hryckowian. The two dropped the gloves, and Colton landed a pair of uppercuts before both tumbled to the ice.

Midway through the period, Gavin Brindley notched his first NHL goal, cashing in on a loose puck in the crease and jamming it past Oettinger to give Colorado a 2–1 lead. It was a great moment for the 21-year-old but he still only saw just over six minutes of time on ice despite scoring a big goal.

Congrats to Gavin Brindley! #GoAvsGo pic.twitter.com/25E2MrPPdX

— Mile High Hockey (@MileHighHockey) October 12, 2025

With 8:45 remaining in the frame, Makar was sent off for tripping Robertson while attempting a poke check, clipping his skates instead. The Stars made the Avalanche pay late in the period. With 1:35 left, Robertson expertly redirected Harley’s point shot past Wedgewood to give Dallas a 3-2 lead entering the third period.

Third Period

Colorado wasted no time equalizing. Just 34 seconds into the final frame, MacKinnon drove the puck deep into the zone and found Artturi Lehkonen, who muscled past Bastian in front of the net for a tap in from the left doorstep to make it a 3-3 game.

Dallas responded swiftly. A mere 1:24 later, Wyatt Johnston broke free on a breakaway, deftly moving from backhand to forehand before sliding the puck past Wedgewood’s outstretched left pad to put the Stars back on top, 4–3.

Colorado then sustained a heavy offensive push, and Ilya Lyubushkin clipped Joel Kiviranta in the face with his stick, drawing blood and earning a four-minute double minor. On the extended power play, the Avalanche finally broke through just before it expired. Nečas set up MacKinnon at the left circle, and the superstar hammered home a one-timer to tie the game at 4–4.

With just over three minutes remaining, Jack Drury nearly gave Colorado the lead, but Oettinger flashed the leather for a spectacular glove save—one that will make every highlight reel. Moments later, Makar found Nečas on the doorstep, but once again Oettinger stymied him with another world-class stop.

Neither side could find a winner through regulation or overtime, sending the game to a shootout.

Shootout

Robertson scored on the first shot for the Stars and Nichushkin kept the Avalanche alive when he beat Oettinger on a backhander. But Colorado’s old friend, Agent 006 Mikko Rantanen showed up to haunt the Avalanche again and scored the game-winner. Dallas improves to 2-0 on the season, while Colorado slips, technically, to 2-0-1, but the extra point means the Avs are still ahead of the Stars in the Central Division.

Takeaways

From the perspective of a hockey lover, this is what every fan asks for in a rivalry game. Close, competitive, and a lot of changes in momentum.

However, from an analytical standpoint, Colorado had an issue with turnovers in stretches during this game and defensive lapses in coverage. And ultimately that’s what cost them the game. Whether it was Bastian sneaking through to the backdoor, giving up the puck, allowing Harley an open lane to fire in the first goal of the game. That sequence was nearly identical to the play that sent the Stars to the Western Conference Final last season, and Harley also scored the series-clinching goal then against the Winnipeg Jets.

But don’t take this too seriously. This was a good game, but they have some work to do, and that’s what practices are for. Tremendous effort and onto the next one.

What’s Next?

The Avalanche get the day off before facing Bowen Byram and the Buffalo Sabres on Monday morning at KeyBank Center. Puck drop is at 10:30 am MT. Be sure to read that properly. It’s a day game.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...n-haunts-former-team-in-5-4-shootout-thriller

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Preview: Colorado looks to stay perfect in a Central Division showdown

After their home opener on Thursday night, which saw the Colorado Avalanche take on the Utah Mammoth, the Avs remain perfect on the season, as they defeated Utah by a final score of 2-1. Tonight, they face a team that they’ve gotten, for better or for worse, all too familiar with in the past couple of seasons, as the Dallas Stars come to Denver for a divisional matchup. This will be the first regular season game between these two teams.

Colorado Avalanche: 2-0-0​

The Opponent: Dallas Stars (1-0-0)

Time: 7:00 p.m. MT

Watch: Altitude Sports, KTVD-TV (My20), Victory+, ESPN+

Listen: Altitude Sports Radio, 92.5 FM

Colorado Avalanche​

Up until this point, the Avs have looked pretty darn good in the two games that they’ve played against the LA Kings and the Utah Mammoth. Everything’s just been clicking for Colorado in these two games so far. Your superstars have done superstar things of course, with Cale Makar walking a Kings defender at the blueline on opening night, and Nathan MacKinnon having the game-winning goal for the Avs against the Mammoth in the home opener. On top of that, however, you’ve gotten some pretty solid depth production as well, with your third line scoring an absoltuely gorgeous goal to get Colorado on the scoreboard first on this past Thursday night.

And then there’s the elephant in the room, in the best way possible, which is Scott Wedgewood. The general thought going into him starting for Colorado in the absense of Mackenzie Blackwood was tht he’d certainly be able to hold his own and give the Avs a chance to win games. That being said, I don’t think anyone really anticipated him playing at such a high level through these two games. He’s been able to bail Colorado out at just about every turn in these two games, with his only two allowed goals coming on the powerplay, I just don’t know how you can’t be happy with his performance. While you’d obviously like the Avs to play and score at such a level that they don’t need Wedgewood bailing them out at every turn, it definitely feels good to have such high confidence in your goaltender, if and when breakdowns inevitably happen at one point or another. Colorado will certainly need Wedgewood to perform well again tonight against an insanely talented, and deep, Dallas Stars team.

Projected Lineup​

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

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

Scott Wedgewood
Trent Miner

Dallas Stars​

Dallas comes into this game off of a 5-4 win over the Winnipeg Jets, which saw the Stars have a 5-1 lead over the Jets with about 10 minutes left in regularion, before the Jets would score three unanswered goals to pull within one. As mentioned earlier, this Dallas team is one that Colorado has become all too familiar with over the past couple of seasons, as this is the team that has eliminated Colorado in the playoffs the past two seasons.

If you’re Colorado, it might be encouraging that Winnipeg was able to make a comeback bid late in the third period during this game, and ultimately pull within one goal. And while that optimism might be founded, make no mistake, this is not a team that you want to play from behind against, under any circumstances. Dallas is very much a legitemate Stanley Cup contendor this season, as they have been the last few seasons, and they can definitely play effective “bend don’t break” hockey, which is what they did against Winnipeg to seal the win. This is also a team who is very well balanced across all four lines and all three defensive pairings, and the Avs will need their depth to make plays like they did against Utah to keep up with the Stars. They have a very good starting goaltender in Jake Oettinger as well, hence the mention of Wedgewood needing to keep up his current level of play. This is a team that is overall very well balanced, and that has no insane weakesses on their roster. This will be a very tough litmus test early in the season for the Avalanche. Hopefully, they’re up for the task.

Projected Lineup​

Jason Robertson – Roope Hintz – Mikko Rantanen
Wyatt Johnston – Matt Duchene – Tyler Seguin
Mavrik Bourque – Sam Steel – Colin Blackwell
Justin Hryckowian – Radek Faksa – Nathan Bastian

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

Jake Oettinger
Casey DeSmith

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...o-stay-perfect-in-a-central-division-showdown

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

How to make sure Mile High Hockey shows up in your Google search

As many of you are likely aware, Google searches are … different these days.

The good news is Google is offering a solution for folks who like to get their news from specific sources. If you want to help Mile High Hockey — while also streamlining all your Google searches — there is now a way.

Simply click on this link and add Mile High Hockey as one of your “Source preferences.” That’s all there is to it!

Back in August, the tech giant debuted a feature called “Preferred Sources.” It’s a way for Google to prominently feature the results from websites you trust, like Mile High Hockey:

“With the launch of Preferred Sources in the U.S. and India, you can select your favorite sources and stay up to date on the latest content from the sites you follow and subscribe to — whether that’s your favorite sports blog or a local news outlet. …

“When you select your preferred sources, you’ll start to see more of their articles prominently displayed within Top Stories, when those sources have published fresh and relevant content for your search.”

As some of you might know, AI searches are hurting outlets around the world and in all spaces. We’ve worked hard at Mile High Hockey to build a brand you can trust and rely on for Colorado Avalanche coverage. Our goal is to serve you, the fans.

If you’re a fan of our work and want to get the best Avalanche coverage possible, this is an excellent win-win to improve your Google searches while helping Mile High Hockey out.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...le-high-hockey-shows-up-in-your-google-search

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Recap: Avalanche survive sleepy matinee downing Sabres 3-1

Four their fourth game on the young season, the Colorado Avalanche traveled to upstate New York to take on the Buffalo Sabres in a very early matinee affair. While it took some time for the Avalanche to find their legs they earned a tidy 3-1 win on the backs of Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar who each scored in this contest.

The Game

It was the home team who came out with the best energy to start this matinee and put five shots on goal on the board quickly. But it was Nathan MacKinnon who didn’t need much opening to fire a backhand on Alex Lyon to put Colorado up by one early. Special teams was the story for the rest of the period as Buffalo had three power plays and Colorado one, however neither team converted on their opportunities. Buffalo snuck the equalizer past Scott Wedgewood near the end of the period on a Tage Thompson wrist shot which had eyes. As such, the first period ended in a 1-1 tie.

Buffalo started the second period with the same zeal but couldn’t grab the lead. Instead, Colorado found another quick strike with Cale Makar sneaking in the backdoor and buried a feed from Val Nichushkin. A questionable matching minors call put the teams on a 4-on-4 and it was MacKinnon who again used the extra room and found a small opening to put the puck past Lyon. After 40 minutes of play the Avalanche had a comfortable 3-1 lead.

Not much of note happened in the third period as there was no additional scoring. Colorado found some coffee at intermission and finally woke up tilting the shot advantage 15-4 in their favor. At one point Martin Nečas scored but the goal was overturned due to the play being offside. After that the teams cruised to a 3-1 final in favor of Colorado.

Takeaways

Buffalo did well for the most part to block out the toxic cesspool of negativity around them and looked alive for the majority of this game. But what they lacked was a Nathan MacKinnon and a Cale Makar, true game breakers who can make a difference when the rest of the team isn’t at their best.

Though it wasn’t a factor in the outcome of this game, the power play still struggled going 0/4 in this contest. Perhaps some juggling of personnel is in order because Brock Nelson isn’t doing his best Mikko Rantanen impression on the right side.

An underplayed storyline is the fact that Gabe Landeskog’s minutes are being managed. He played 13 minutes in this game including three on the power play. Surely whatever keeps him healthy and effective is the ultimate goal but still something worth pointing out.

Upcoming

One final game on the road trip after a few days off in Columbus, Ohio. Puck drop against the Blue Jackets is at 5 p.m. MT on Thursday, October 16th.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...che-survive-sleepy-matinee-downing-sabres-3-1

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

2025-26 Avalanche of Injuries, Part One

As the Colorado Avalanche began the 2025-26 season relatively healthy and are overall still in pretty good shape (knock on wood), there are still a few injuries the team is dealing with some recent updates.

Samuel Girard

After working hard to rehab and return from a offseason lower-body injury just in time to get in one preseason game and make opening night, Samuel Girard is back on the shelf with a new ailment. Though he finished the win against Utah in the second game of the season, the team announced that Girard has an upper-body injury and is now week-to-week with Jared Bednar indicating he will miss ““some time”. On October 12, Girard was placed on Injured Reserve which allowed defenseman Jack Ahcan to get recalled to the Avalanche.

Update: Samuel Girard is week-to-week with an upper-body injury.

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) October 11, 2025

Mackenzie Blackwood

The biggest story heading into the season was the unavailability of Colorado’s starting goaltender for the start of the season which was described as only going to last “a week or two”. While Mackenzie Blackwood has progressed to taking some shots at practice with the team, his return is not yet imminent. The entire nature of the injury is still a mystery especially since it was outed by the Vegas Golden Knights broadcast that Blackwood actually had surgery in the offseason with several months of recovery needed. It is unclear if the current issue is a recovery setback or a new ailment that has popped up since. One good news to note is that Blackwood has not been placed on Injured Reserve by the team and was sent to the Colorado Eagles this week on a conditioning loan. The Eagles don’t play until Saturday so it remains to be seen if this is just for practice or how much time Blackwood needs before returning to the Avalanche.

If you’re watching the game and heard the VGK broadcast mention that Mackenzie Blackwood had a surgery and won’t be ready, I’ve confirmed that this was a procedure done back in May right after the season ended. This is NOT a new surgery that has changed his recent status.

— Jesse Montano (@jessemontano_) October 2, 2025

Logan O’Connor

As the known offseason surgery, it seems Logan O’Connor is still on track from his hip procedure. He was spotted skating before training camp with the other injured players but has yet to resume practice with the team. O’Connor’s target return is still sometime in November but has been placed on Long Term Injured Reserve for now to give the Avalanche an extra $2.2M in cap relief.

Season-Opening IR

A bunch of minor league players were put on Colorado’s Season-Opening Injured Reserve until they are cleared to be sent down to the AHL. Most notably defenseman Jacob MacDonald is still recovering from his September hip surgery with a quoted 5-6 month recovery timeline. All three of Ronnie Attard, Sean Behrens and Nikita Prishchepov each left the ice during an Avalanche preseason game and were never heard from or seen again with no injury update and were subsequently placed on SOIR. At least Behrens’ injury was minor enough to get reassigned to the Eagles this week.

Update: Sean Behrens has been activated and reassigned to the Colorado Eagles.

In addition, Mackenzie Blackwood has been placed on a conditioning loan to the Colorado Eagles.

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) October 13, 2025

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colorado-avalanche-transactions/58664/avalanche-of-injuries-part-one

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Weekly Cupcakes – Celebrating Brent Burns

Brent Burns celebrated his 1.500th game which is a remarkable feat. In a show of support, the Avs decided to dress like him and wear tanks with his face on them prior to the game. [NHL]

Burns has an epic backpack… but what’s really in it? [Toronto Star]

Will the Avs be able to retain well-liked Martin Necas? [The Hockey News]

Tyson Barrie recently talked about a time in 2019 that he thought he’d be traded to the Canucks. [Canucks Daily]

Former Avalanche coach Bob Hartley gave a great interview and gave Cale Makar great praise. [RG]

Expect Sam Girard to be out “for some time”. [Denver Sports]

The Sabres are winless thus far in the season, their coach called them out prior to the Avs taking them on. [Yardbarker]

Some are predicting the Colorado Avalanche will win the Stanley Cup. [ESPN]

Jonathan Drouin has been suspended for one game. [NHL]

A list of 26 individuals who can potentially define the 2026 season. [Sportsnet]

Gary Bettman finally sees value in the Olympic break. [CBC]

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/daily-cupcakes-sandie/58648/sandies-weekly-cupcakes

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Preview: Avs in Columbus for showdown with the Blue Jackets

It’s a quick trip to middle America for the Colorado Avalanche for a showdown with the Columbus Blue Jackets, who are in search of their first victory on home ice during this 2025-26 campaign. The Avalanche, on the other hand, have gotten off to a blazing start this season, collecting at least a point in all four regular-season contests so far. Will the Avalanche continue that hot start, or will it be the Blue Jackets’ turn to take the victory lane?

Colorado Avalanche: 3-0-1​

The Opponent: Columbus Blue Jackets 1-2-0

Time: 5:00 p.m. MT

Watch: Altitude, Altitude+

Listen: Altitude Sports Radio, 92.5 FM

Colorado Avalanche​

I know victory lane is more of a racing term. That said, the Colorado Avalanche have been watching more like an F1 race as of late, so I think the terminology can be interchangeable. Nathan MacKinnon and Martin Necas sit tied for third in the player points race, each with 8 points in the first four contests. It’s not just the points, either; it’s how they are putting up points. Watching these two work together, along with Artturi Lehkonen, is reminiscent of Ferrari executing a team order—poetry in motion.

My god this video is epic. #GoAvsGo pic.twitter.com/mP1zeIbOEe

— Adrian Hernandez (@AdoHernandez27) October 13, 2025

Avs fans got a bit of a scare with Gabe Landeskog missing practice yesterday, but we were warned of him taking days off for maintenance, and it appears that’s precisely what we saw yesterday. Jared Bednar says that Cap is good to go. Can’t blame Avalanche fans for overreacting to that one. They have been through a lot.

It feels like Zakhar Bardakov has to get a start in tonight’s game, and with Brock Nelson a likely game-time decision, that feels entirely likely. Nelson was cut against the Sabres on Monday afternoon on his hand or wrist area, but it was described as “just a flesh wound” by Jared Bednar on Altitude Sports Radio Tuesday morning. If Nelson can’t go, I’d expect Ross Colton to elevate.

Scott Wedgewood is the confirmed starter for tonight’s contest, and to be honest, Scott has looked more like a bona fide starter than a backup so far this year. That’s great news for fans and MacKenzie Blackwood, who shouldn’t feel rushed to get back after being loaned to the Colorado Eagles for a conditioning stint.

Projected Lineup:​

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

Devon Toews — Cale Makar
Josh Manson — Brent Burns
Ilya Solovyov — Sam Malinski

Scott Wedgewood
Trent Miner

Columbus Blue Jackets​

Alright, the Blue Jackets are a good team and have a great defender of their own who also wears the number eight coincidentally. Zach Werensky, in fact, got the second most votes for Norris last season, falling short of Cale Makar by 166 first-place votes. Werensky has three points in as many games, so the Avalanche would do well to keep an eye on the young man.

Kirill Marchenko had himself a wicked hatty against the Minnesota Wild last weekend, and it looks like he hasn’t skipped a beat since putting up career-high numbers last season.

Kirill Marchenko completes the hatty in fashion!

His shot is honestly ridiculous. #NHLFaceOff pic.twitter.com/TKINhfZsM8

— NHL (@NHL) October 12, 2025

I think the Columbus team is a playoff team and thus provides a good test for an Avalanche team that has already garnered the praise of pundits around the league. You might call this a ’trap game,’ but in all honesty, I think Columbus is a good team.

It will be Merzlikins in the net for the Blue Jackets, who is 1-0 on the season, giving up four goals to the Wild, but securing a win while earning a .923 SV%.

Projected Lineup:​

Kent Johnson — Sean Monahan — Kirill Marchenko
Dmitri Voronkov — Adam Fantill — Cole Sillinge
Boone Jenner — Charlie Coyle — Mathieu Olivier
Yegor Chinakhov — Isac Lundestrom — Zach Aston-Reese

Zach Werenski — Dante Fabbr
Ivan Provorov — Damon Severson
Jake Christiansen — Denton Mateychu

Elvis Merzlikins
Jet Greaves

Note: Erik Gudbranson and Miles Wood are listed as “day-to-day.”

Let’s drop the puck in Ohio!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...in-columbus-for-showdow-with-the-blue-jackets

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Recap: Colorado wraps up the two-game roadtrip with a win over Columbus

The Colorado Avalanche wrapped up their two-game roadtrip out east with a matchup against the Columbus Blue Jackets tonight. Ultimatley, it would be the Avs who took control to win the game by a final score of 4-1. Let’s take a look at all the action from tonight!

First Period​

The first period really was really these two teams just feeling each other out, for the most part. Both teams had some quality opportunities and looks throughout this period, but both goalies stood strong and the score remained 0-0 heading into the second period.

Second Period​

Ivan Provorov would be the one to get the scoring going for the Blue Jackets tonight off of a feed from Kirill Marchenko. Marchenko would circle behind the Colorado net on this play, and pass the puck off to Provorov, who found a soft spot on the ice and roofed the puck over Scott Wedgewood for what would be Columbus’s only goal of the night.

TOP SHELF PROVOROV!

CBJ x @FanaticsBook pic.twitter.com/avB0m4a8Bz

— Columbus Blue Jackets (@BlueJacketsNHL) October 17, 2025

After that goal, the rest of this period was all Avalanche despite Columbus getting a goal waived off for the puck bouncing off of a player’s hand. First, Cale Makar would get the scoring going for Colorado in his 400th game, as he would just let a puck rip from the point, and find a lane to beat Elvis Merzlikins.

From way downtown! pic.twitter.com/0qkUNCTnbr

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) October 17, 2025

After that, Brock Nelson would finally get his first goal on the season, as he would tip home a Brent Burns shot from the slot to give the Avs the go-ahead goal.

The redirection from Nelson pic.twitter.com/bm7xGFQUPV

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) October 17, 2025

And finally, with just secons left in the second period, Valeri Nichushkin would add to Colorado’s lead to put them up by two goals heading into the third period.

Nichushkin puts a stamp on the second period! pic.twitter.com/6uWsMEVRGB

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) October 17, 2025

Third Period​

Val Nichushkin would add on his second goal of the night with an empty-net goal for your final score of 4-1 in Colorado’s favor. Columbus did look like they had pulled within one before the empty-net goal, but for a second time this evening it was ultimately ruled a no-goal, due to a hand pass.

Takeaways​

Once the Avs got passed that first period where they were really just feeling Columbus out, they found their groove, put their foot on the glass, and never let up. If you can keep up that intensity night after night, you are going to win a lot of hockey games. You don’t have to be a high-flying offense 24/7 to win games, and in fact I’d argue that the goals they scored tonight were just smart, hardworking goals, and it was their intensity and effort that allowed them to create those opportunities and ultimately capitalize.

The second line really stood out to me tonight, as it felt like they finally got rewarded for everything they’ve been doing right, not only in this game tonight, but in all the other games this season so far. It felt inevitable that that line would get on the board at some point or another with how they’d been playing, and they were finally rewarded tonight. If they can regularly contribute to the scoresheet night in and night out, that’ll be a huge boost for this Avalanche team.

Upcoming​

Colorado heads back home to take on the Boston Bruins on Saturday, October 18th. Puck drop is at 7:00 p.m. MT.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...he-two-game-roadtrip-with-a-win-over-columbus

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Is Gavin Brindley here to stay?

To highlight a strong opening of the season for the Colorado Avalanche, the full Mile High Hockey Lab crew of Ezra Parter, Evan Liu, Brennan Vogt, Jackie Kay and host Adrian Hernandez gathered to break down the first four games on the young NHL season.

Topics covered include the ongoing Marty Nečas contract saga and if there are any new updates in the rumor mill, injury news regarding Sam Girard and Mackenzie Blackwood, we examine if there should be any concerns about the power play this early on and if Gavin Brindley really has made the team for good.

As always, this episode of the MHH Lab includes our popular bold predictions segment and come find out what prediction has already earned Adrian a DING for the week.

Mile High Hockey Lab is available on your preferred Podcast platform! Don’t forget to download our new episode and give us a follow!

NEW EPISODE ALERT

LAB #115: Lights, Camera, MacKtion#GoAvsGo | @MileHighHockeyhttps://t.co/p8a7w6qzfR

— Mile High Hockey Lab (@MHH_LAB) October 16, 2025

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/mhh-lab-podcast/58734/is-gavin-brindley-here-to-stay