News Avalanche Team Notes

[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

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Recap: Avalanche get revenge on Predators

In their second meeting with the Nashville Predators this week, the Colorado Avalanche were hoping for the opposite result after falling in a shoutout on Tuesday night. Christmas came early in this contest for several Avalanche players who hadn’t hit the scoresheet lately as Jack Drury and Victor Oloffson both scored in this contest along with Samuel Girard contributing two assists. Nathan MacKinnon and Val Nichushkin also scored as Colorado cruised to a fairly routine 4-2 win over Nashville.

The Game

A couple familiar themes emerged to start this game. First Colorado got on the board in the opening minutes as Brent Burns fed Nathan MacKinnon for his 26th goal of the year surprising old friend in net Justus Annunen. Jack Drury would add another at the midpoint on a 4-on-4 before Nashville got one back just a minute later from Jonathan Marchessault on the power play. It wasn’t total domination, though, as the game was close to end the period 2-1 in Colorado’s favor with an 11-8 shot advantage.

The second period was more of the same as Nashville attempted to grind the game and keep it close. That worked until the Avalanche used the extra attacker on a delayed penalty which led Victor Olofsson to find a loose puck deflected to him right in the slot and he found the back of the net.Another old friend, this time Tyson Jost, took two minor penalties before the end of the period but Colorado couldn’t cash in on the power play and the score ended up at 3-1 to close out the second period.

Colorado played keep away with the puck in the third period but couldn’t add to their goal total until for some reason Nashville pulled their goaltender for the extra attacker with four minutes left in the game. They must have been in a giving mood as it took about 10 seconds before Colorado scored their fourth goal of the evening. Val Nichushkin was the beneficiary and quite fitting as he got whacked hard in the face by a Predator’s stick earlier in the period but also deserved a tally after contributing eight shots on goal in this contest.

Tyson Jost continued his eventful evening with his second goal of the year at one minute left in the game but the result was long decided by that point and the Avalanche secured their 4-2 win.

Takeaways

Scott Wedgewood put up another stellar performance as he held the fort down when the Avalanche weren’t firing on all cylinders in the first period. He made 27 saves on 29 shots for his 14th win on the season and was named first star of the game.

The power play is still ineffective going 0/4 in this game as Jared Bednar has been starting to shuffle personnel around on the top unit. A score wasn’t needed in this game so they’ll continue to tinker and hope to find some chemistry.

Upcoming

A couple days off and then a quick trip to visit the Seattle Kraken on Tuesday, December, 16th at 8 p.m. MT nationally televised on TNT.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...0249/recap-avalanche-get-revenge-on-predators

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Open Thread: Nashville Predators @ Colorado Avalanche (7:00 P.M.)

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 similarly sounding family name that Avs and Nordiques fans alike may be familiar with) 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

Follow along in the comments below!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/open...ashville-predators-colorado-avalanche-700-p-m

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Landeskog reveals who he’d pass the Stanley Cup to should Colorado win again

Prior to the win against the Florida Panthers earlier in the week, there was a special conversation between friends that aired ESPN. Erik Johnson, now an analyst with the network, visited Colorado Avalanche captain Gabe Landeskog at his home for a one-on-one interview.

The two covered a variety of topics including the Captain’s near three-year injury recovery, Colorado’s blazing hot start this season and the ultimate memory of winning the Stanley Cup together in 2022.

Johnson mentions how back then in 2022 it was discussed and they predetermined that he would get to lift the Stanley Cup after Landeskog and then asks Gabe if he’s decided who would get the honors in 2026 should Colorado win a championship again. The ever diplomatic Landeskog says he’d have to think about it but concedes that it’s probably going to defenseman Brent Burns who has waited 22 years. Sound familiar?…

What would be your hypothetical order to pass the Cup? Let us know in the comments!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/gene...-the-stanley-cup-to-should-colorado-win-again

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Weekly Cupcakes: Can Colorado break the NHL points record this season?

Colorado Avalanche News​

• Nashville Predators are giving props to the Colorado Avalanche after losing to them 4-2. [The Hockey News]
• The Colorado Avalanche have quietly earned their best penalty kill in the league. [Denver Post]
• MacKinnon now officially has the most goals in Colorado Avalanche history. [NHL]
• NHL 2025-26 Power Rankings: Week 9: The Colorado Avalanche remain listed at number one this week. [The Hockey Writers]
• Do the Avs have what it takes to break the NHL points record this season? [The Hockey News]
• Is a new Avalanche practice facility on the horizon? [Mile High Hockey]

News Around the League​

• NHL says incomplete Olympic hockey rink ‘disappointing’ — and ice still must be deemed safe. [CBC]

• Connor Bedard not expected to travel with Blackhawks following injury. [ProHockeyRumors]

• Canucks Schedule: Why the right culture is critical following Quinn Hughes trade. [Toronto Sun]

• ‘He’ll shake it off’: Ugly mistakes part of winning formula for some players, ex-NHLers say as Evan Bouchard made a costly error. [Edmonton Journal]

• NHL legend dies aged 85 as tributes flood in for four-time Stanley Cup winner with Montreal Canadiens Bobby Rousseau died. [US Sun]
• More ‘color vs. color’ jersey games wanted by NHL board of governors. [Daily Faceoff]

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/daily-cupcakes-sandie/60281/weekly-cupcakes

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Open Thread: Colorado Avalanche vs. Florida Panthers (7:30 p.m.)

After finishing up a road trip with a shootout loss to the Nashville Predators, the Avalanche are back in the Mile High City as they welcome the Florida Panthers to town. This will be the first regular-season matchup between these two teams. It is also the celebration night of the 1996 Stanley Cup team.

Colorado Avalanche (21-2-7)​

The Opponent: Florida Panthers (15-12-2)

Time: 7:30 p.m. MT

Watch: ESPN

Listen: Altitude Sports Radio, 92.5 FM

Colorado Avalanche​

After coming off a road trip where they went 2-1-1, the Colorado Avalanche are back home for a couple of games starting tonight, and they take on the Florida Panthers first on this small home stand. Colorado ultimately lost in a shootout to the Nashville Predators, as previously mentioned, and will be looking to get back in the win column tonight against the Panthers. They should have a very good chance to do it here tonight against a Panthers team that have been struggling this year, which we’ll touch on here in a moment.

Gavin Brindley was taken off Injured Reservecin Nashville but didn’t play. Tonight he draws back into the lineup in favor of Zakhar Bardakov as Parker Kelly shifts to center. Mackenzie Blackwood is expected in net.

Projected Lineup​

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

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

Mackenzie Blackwood
Scott Wedgewood

Florida Panthers​

The Panthers have won three games in a row, but they have been struggling all season this year so far. Currently, they sit four spots out of a playoff spot, and have also faced a massive amount of injuries this year. Matthew Tkachuck has been out for the entirety of the season so far, which has been a massive missing piece for this Panthers team. That all being said, the Panthers are still the Panthers; they know how to win, and they have good players on the roster regardless of who they’re missing, and Colorado will need to keep that in mind tonight. It’s also worth noting that Florida did play last night in a 4-3 victory over the Utah Mammoth, which might work in Colorado’s favor if they can jump on the Panthers early.

Projected Lineup​

Eetu Luostarinen – Anton Lundell – Sam Reinhart
Carter Verhaeghe – Sam Bennett – Brad Marchand
Mackie Samoskevich – Evan Rodrigues – AJ Greer
Jesper Boqvist – Jack Studnicka – Noah Gregor

Gustav Forsling – Aaron Ekblad
Niko Mikkola – Seth Jones
Jeff Petry – Uvis Balinskis

Sergei Bobrovsky
Daniil Tarasov

Follow along in the comments below!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/open...olorado-avalanche-vs-florida-panthers-730-p-m

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Preview: Avalanche welcomes Panthers to Denver

After finishing up a road trip with a shootout loss to the Nashville Predators, the Avalanche are back in the Mile High City as they welcome the Florida Panthers to town. This will be the first regular-season matchup between these two teams. It is also the celebration night of the 1996 Stanley Cup team.

Colorado Avalanche (21-2-7)​

The Opponent: Florida Panthers (15-12-2)

Time: 7:30 p.m. MT

Watch: ESPN

Listen: Altitude Sports Radio, 92.5 FM

Colorado Avalanche​

After coming off a road trip where they went 2-1-1, the Colorado Avalanche are back home for a couple of games starting tonight, and they take on the Florida Panthers first on this small home stand. Colorado ultimately lost in a shootout to the Nashville Predators, as previously mentioned, and will be looking to get back in the win column tonight against the Panthers. They should have a very good chance to do it here tonight against a Panthers team that have been struggling this year, which we’ll touch on here in a moment.

Gavin Brindley was taken off Injured Reservecin Nashville but didn’t play. Tonight he draws back into the lineup in favor of Zakhar Bardakov as Parker Kelly shifts to center. Mackenzie Blackwood is expected in net.

Projected Lineup​

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

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

Mackenzie Blackwood
Scott Wedgewood

Florida Panthers​

The Panthers have won three games in a row, but they have been struggling all season this year so far. Currently, they sit four spots out of a playoff spot, and have also faced a massive amount of injuries this year. Matthew Tkachuck has been out for the entirety of the season so far, which has been a massive missing piece for this Panthers team. That all being said, the Panthers are still the Panthers; they know how to win, and they have good players on the roster regardless of who they’re missing, and Colorado will need to keep that in mind tonight. It’s also worth noting that Florida did play last night in a 4-3 victory over the Utah Mammoth, which might work in Colorado’s favor if they can jump on the Panthers early.

Projected Lineup​

Eetu Luostarinen – Anton Lundell – Sam Reinhart
Carter Verhaeghe – Sam Bennett – Brad Marchand
Mackie Samoskevich – Evan Rodrigues – AJ Greer
Jesper Boqvist – Jack Studnicka – Noah Gregor

Gustav Forsling – Aaron Ekblad
Niko Mikkola – Seth Jones
Jeff Petry – Uvis Balinskis

Sergei Bobrovsky
Daniil Tarasov

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo.../preview-avalanche-welcome-panthers-to-denver

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Preview: The Avalanche get Kraken in Seattle

The Colorado Avalanche are all set for a matchup with the Seattle Kraken tonight at Climate Pledge Arena. Colorado comes in as most pundits pick for the best team in the league; meanwhile, the Kraken are struggling to get back to just being a .500 team. Can the Avalanche assert themselves and take care of business, or is a matchup with the league’s top dog just what the Kraken need to get back in the win column?

Colorado Avalanche: 23-2-7​

The Opponent: Seattle Kraken 12-12-6

Time: 8:00 p.m. MT

Watch: Altitude, Altitude+, ESPN+

Listen: Altitude Sports Radio, 92.5 FM

Colorado Avalanche​

It’s hard to imagine a better start for this Avalanche team, who keep on winning games. The problem is that the Dallas Stars keep winning, too. Perhaps only leading the Stars by four points inside of this tremendous stretch isn’t such a bad thing?

Setting sail ️ pic.twitter.com/FJqWqw1HkC

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) December 16, 2025

When a team is dominating like this, the easy and not all that analytical take is, “Oh, they won’t face enough adversity and will lose in the first round,” but inside a season where your best is still only suitable for a four-point standings lead, you have a lot to play for, and that in and of itself is adversity. That is one of the laziest takes in hockey. This Colorado Avalanche team is good and knows how to win big games.

We may be adding another feather to the cap of Chris MacFarland and Joe Sakic, who sneakily landed a great player in Gavin Brindley, who has been elevated to the third line since returning from injury. That affordable, young, and productive talent is a key component to most Cup winners.

Gavin Brindley is back like he never left!! #GoAvsGo pic.twitter.com/CdHttkCJxi

— Denver Nose Bleeds (@DenverNoseBleed) December 12, 2025

Projected Lineup:​

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

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

MacKenzie Blackwood
Scott Wedgewood

Seattle Kraken​

The Kraken feel like a team searching for its true identity and come into tonight’s game after losing their last two games. The Avalanche are obviously a tough draw amidst a losing streak, and this game has the potential to really send the Kraken spiraling if things get out of hand.

Nathan MacKinnon has been on the ice for 41 5v5 goals for so far this season. He just passed the Seattle Kraken (39) and is only two behind the Los Angeles Kings (43) now

— Dimitri Filipovic (@DimFilipovic) December 6, 2025

Seattle has the second-worst goal differential in the NHL at -19 and has really struggled to put the puck in the net. They also have a league-low 74 goals this season, with not much hope on the horizon. It’s still professional sports, so the Kraken will get their shot at shocking the world, but it will indeed be shocking if they can steal a win this evening, even being on home ice.

Projected Lineup:​

Eeli Tolvanen — Matty Beniers — Jordan Eberle
Kaapo Kakko — Chandler Stephenson — Frederick Gaudreau
Jani Nyman — Shane Wright — Ryan Winterton
Tye Kartye — Ben Meyers — Jacob Melanson

Vince Dunn — Adam Larsson
Ryan Lindgren — Brandon Montour
Ryker Evans — Jamie Oleksiak

Joey Daccord
Philipp Grubauer

Note: Kaapo Kakko, Vince Dunn & Mason Marchment are all listed as day-to-day according to DailyFaceoff.com

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...1/preview-the-avalanche-get-kraken-in-seattle

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Recap: MacKinnon scores twice, Avs win third straight

Nathan MacKinnon scored twice and added an assist to pad his lead atop the NHL scoring race as the Colorado Avalanche earned a 5-3 win over the Seattle Kraken on Tuesday night at Climate Pledge Arena.

Brock Nelson stayed hot with another goal, giving him four in his last five games. Artturi Lehkonen also found the back of the net, while Samuel Girard picked up his first goal of the season. Cale Makar, Martin Nečas, and Valeri Nichushkin each finished with two assists, and Mackenzie Blackwood turned in a strong night in goal, stopping 34 shots.

The win was Colorado’s third in a row, while Seattle dropped its third straight, though the Kraken were competitive throughout and held the lead at times.

Seattle got goals from Chandler Stephenson, Shane Wright, and Jordan Eberle. Former Avalanche goaltender Philipp Grubauer was solid despite the loss, making 33 saves.

---

First Period​

It was a physical start as just over two minutes into the game, Josh Manson caught Mason Marchment with a hard check from behind, sending the forward to the ice. Several Avalanche players stood up on the bench to get a look, and when Marchment got back to his feet, he exchanged words with those nearby.

Seattle controlled much of the early play and held a 6–3 edge in shots, but Blackwood was sharp right away. He came up with a pair of highlight-reel saves on Matty Beniers and Frederick Gaudreau to keep the game scoreless.

Colorado opened the scoring with 7:40 left in the period. Martin Nečas fired a shot through traffic that Lehkonen tipped past Seattle netminder Philipp Grubauer, who never saw it. The goal was initially credited to Nečas before the deflection was confirmed.

Marchment later got loose on a partial breakaway, but Sam Malinski tracked back and forced him into Blackwood, earning a holding penalty. The Avalanche penalty kill handled that chance, and another Malinski penalty shortly after, without issue.

Seattle then took a penalty of its own when Ryan Winterton tripped Nečas in the neutral zone, but Colorado’s power play continued to struggle. The Avalanche carried a 1–0 lead into the intermission.

---

Second Period​

The lead didn’t last long as Seattle tied it just over three minutes into the period. Jani Nyman rang a shot off the post, and Wright jumped on the rebound at the back door.

Seattle grabbed a lead of their own soon after. Beniers slipped a pass across the crease to Adam Larsson, whose first attempt was stopped by Blackwood. The puck sat loose, though, and Eberle tapped it into an open net.

Colorado caught a break when Marchment was called for slashing Nečas, but again the Avalanche couldn’t capitalize on the man advantage. Nečas appeared to score moments later, only for the goal to be overturned after review showed the puck was knocked in with his glove.

The Avalanche finally pulled even at 13:29 when Girard stepped into a one-timer and beat Grubauer for his first goal of the season, drawing a loud reaction from the Colorado fans in attendance.

Vince Dunn was later sent off for tripping Nečas, but yet again the Avalanche power play came up empty. Seattle’s penalty kill held firm despite entering the night ranked last in the league.

Late in the period, Ross Colton was called for boarding Ryan Lindgren. The Kraken made it count, as Stephenson’s shot deflected off Brent Burns’ skate and into the net, giving Seattle a 3–2 lead heading into the third.

---

Third Period​

Things got heated early in the final frame when Marchment slashed Manson after the whistle. The two had been going at it all night, and Manson responded with several right hands that bloodied Marchment’s nose. Burns and Brandon Montour also got tangled up, and all four players received double minors for roughing.

Colorado got the last laugh, though, as they tied the game at 2:40 when Nathan MacKinnon ripped a one-timer off a feed from Cale Makar.

Joel Kiviranta was later called for tripping Nyman, giving Seattle another power-play look, but Blackwood and the penalty kill held the line.

At 7:49, Eberle was awarded a penalty shot after officials ruled Manson had covered the puck in the crease. The call left Manson furious, and replay appeared to show the puck loose. Eberle’s attempt missed wide, keeping the game tied 3-3.

Dunn was then called for tripping Gabe Landeskog, and just nine seconds into the power play, Brock Nelson buried a rebound off a MacKinnon shot to give Colorado the lead with just over 12 minutes remaining.

Seattle pulled Grubauer for the extra attacker late but couldn’t generate the equalizer. MacKinnon capped the night with an empty-net goal with 23.4 seconds left to seal the win 5-3 victory.

---

Up Next​

The Avalanche (24-2-5) get two nights off before returning home to face Jonathan Toews and the Winnipeg Jets (15-15-2) on Friday night at Ball Arena. Puck drop is set for 7 p.m. local time.

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/colo...mackinnon-scores-twice-avs-win-third-straight

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Open Thread: Colorado Avalanche vs. Seattle Kraken (8:00 p.m.)

The Colorado Avalanche are all set for a matchup with the Seattle Kraken tonight at Climate Pledge Arena. Colorado comes in as most pundits pick for the best team in the league; meanwhile, the Kraken are struggling to get back to just being a .500 team. Can the Avalanche assert themselves and take care of business, or is a matchup with the league’s top dog just what the Kraken need to get back in the win column?

Colorado Avalanche: 23-2-7​

The Opponent: Seattle Kraken 12-12-6

Time: 8:00 p.m. MT

Watch: Altitude, Altitude+, ESPN+

Listen: Altitude Sports Radio, 92.5 FM

Colorado Avalanche​

It’s hard to imagine a better start for this Avalanche team, who keep on winning games. The problem is that the Dallas Stars keep winning, too. Perhaps only leading the Stars by four points inside of this tremendous stretch isn’t such a bad thing?

Setting sail ️ pic.twitter.com/FJqWqw1HkC

— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) December 16, 2025

When a team is dominating like this, the easy and not all that analytical take is, “Oh, they won’t face enough adversity and will lose in the first round,” but inside a season where your best is still only suitable for a four-point standings lead, you have a lot to play for, and that in and of itself is adversity. That is one of the laziest takes in hockey. This Colorado Avalanche team is good and knows how to win big games.

We may be adding another feather to the cap of Chris MacFarland and Joe Sakic, who sneakily landed a great player in Gavin Brindley, who has been elevated to the third line since returning from injury. That affordable, young, and productive talent is a key component to most Cup winners.

Gavin Brindley is back like he never left!! #GoAvsGo pic.twitter.com/CdHttkCJxi

— Denver Nose Bleeds (@DenverNoseBleed) December 12, 2025

Projected Lineup:​

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

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

MacKenzie Blackwood
Scott Wedgewood

Seattle Kraken​

The Kraken feel like a team searching for its true identity and come into tonight’s game after losing their last two games. The Avalanche are obviously a tough draw amidst a losing streak, and this game has the potential to really send the Kraken spiraling if things get out of hand.

Nathan MacKinnon has been on the ice for 41 5v5 goals for so far this season. He just passed the Seattle Kraken (39) and is only two behind the Los Angeles Kings (43) now

— Dimitri Filipovic (@DimFilipovic) December 6, 2025

Seattle has the second-worst goal differential in the NHL at -19 and has really struggled to put the puck in the net. They also have a league-low 74 goals this season, with not much hope on the horizon. It’s still professional sports, so the Kraken will get their shot at shocking the world, but it will indeed be shocking if they can steal a win this evening, even being on home ice.

Projected Lineup:​

Eeli Tolvanen — Matty Beniers — Jordan Eberle
Kaapo Kakko — Chandler Stephenson — Frederick Gaudreau
Jani Nyman — Shane Wright — Ryan Winterton
Tye Kartye — Ben Meyers — Jacob Melanson

Vince Dunn — Adam Larsson
Ryan Lindgren — Brandon Montour
Ryker Evans — Jamie Oleksiak

Joey Daccord
Philipp Grubauer

Note: Kaapo Kakko, Vince Dunn & Mason Marchment are all listed as day-to-day according to DailyFaceoff.com

Follow along in the comments below!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/open...-colorado-avalanche-vs-seattle-kraken-800-p-m

 

[Colorado Avalanche]

Mile High Pollster: Avalanche fans want a new third jersey

It’s another installment of Mile High Pollster! Does the third jersey need an upgrade? Do the Avalanche need to move Ilya Solovyov? Who’s headed to the Olympics, and how does the depth of this roster (as currently constructed) stack up against the 2022 roster? Let’s see what the fans think!

Third jersey reboot​

It’s been ten years since the Avalanche introduced their dark blue third jersey, and, in all honesty, it is among the most popular jerseys despite being nothing new. We’ve seen a Reebok, Adidas, and now Fanatics rendering of this kit. It’s super sharp and a great look for division rivalry night. Ten years is a long time, and given how eager fans were to buy the Nordique heritage jersey, it would be a wise move to provide them with another premium product!

Should the Avalanche re-imagine their third jerseys? #GoAvsGo

— Mile High Hockey (@MileHighHockey) December 15, 2025

I, for one, would love for the Avalanche to get a fresh look for division rivalry night. The Avalanche have a color scheme that’s hard to screw up, and for all the hate, we still see plenty of blue berry and red berry jerseys. Some of them with Tyson Barrie on the back. How about a spin on one of those?

Good, better, and best​

It’s almost Christmas, and the Avalanche still haven’t lost a third game in regulation. That is a sentence I didn’t think I’d ever write. This sort of success has come in large part to a Hart-worthy performance from MacKinnon, but has been propelled just a bit more by the emergence of Gavin Brindley and Sam Malinski. Brindley looks like a mainstay and has played every game in which he’s been 100%. Sam Malinski is set to blow old career best stats out of the water this season. This Avalanche team is deep. Is it as deep as the juggernaut from 2022?

Obviously, whether this team is as good as the 2022 team won’t be proven until we enjoy the spoils of late nights in the middle of June. Still, for now, we can look at roster construction and productivity in certain areas to compare.

Time for another pollster!

Is this Avalanche team currently constructed as well, not as well or better than the 2022 #Avs team?#GoAvsGo

— Mile High Hockey (@MileHighHockey) December 15, 2025

For me, the goaltending situation is far more ideal and consistent than what the 2022 team had to offer. That’s not meant as disrespect to Kuemper or Francouz, but more of a compliment to Wedgewood and Blackwood, who’ve done all they’ve been asked to do as Avalanche.

Solovyov on the brain​

Speaking of depth, the Avalanche are likely still in the market for another depth defender, as Solovyov has largely been unavailable and not all that impressive when in action. Brennan mentioned on this week’s edition of the Mile High Hockey Lab that even Solovyov has acknowledged that he hasn’t looked all that good during his conditioning stint in Loveland. What do you think should be done?

What should the Avs do with Ilya Solovyov when his conditioning assignment ends?

— Mile High Hockey (@MileHighHockey) December 14, 2025

Full of future Olympians​

We are growing closer and closer to the opening ceremony night and the Winter Olympics 2026 in Milano Cortina, Italy, and this time around, the NHL’s best will be on full display. Colorado’s roster is full of premier talent, and the results of this poll exemplify that. The majority of voters say the Avalanche will send at least seven players to the Winter Games. Impressive group!

A couple polls to start your day. How many #goavsgo players will participate in the Olympics?

— Mile High Hockey (@MileHighHockey) December 14, 2025

Let us know what your answers are in the comments, and be sure to follow us on X for future polls!

Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/mhh-...llster-avalanche-fans-want-a-new-third-jersey