Get ready for an exciting showdown as the Colorado Avalanche (18-1-6) face off against the Vancouver Canucks (10-13-3)! With a 7:08 p.m. MT puck drop, this game promises to be a thrilling battle. But here's the twist: the Avalanche are returning with a key player, and their lineup is looking stronger than ever.
The Return of Nichushkin: A Game-Changer?
Valeri Nichushkin, a crucial member of the Avalanche, is back in action after an eight-game absence due to a lower-body injury. His presence on the second line alongside Brock Nelson and captain Gabe Landeskog is expected to boost the team's offensive prowess. And get this - the Avs maintained an impressive 7-0-1 record without him!
Goalie Showdown: Wedgewood vs. Lankinen
Scott Wedgewood, the Avalanche's trusted goalie, aims to bounce back after a shootout loss in his last start against Minnesota. Meanwhile, the Canucks are likely to start Kevin Lankinen, who has been solid between the pipes.
Canucks' Road Woes: A Surprising Stat
Despite a recent slump, with only two wins in their last ten games, the Canucks have managed to maintain a winning record on the road. But can they keep up this trend against the mighty Avalanche?
Previous Meeting: A Nail-Biter
The Avalanche and Canucks met once before this season, with Colorado emerging victorious in a thrilling 5-4 overtime win on November 9th. This was the Avs' only OT victory in seven attempts so far.
Season Series
- November 9th at Vancouver Canucks (W, 5-4 OT)
- December 2nd vs Vancouver Canucks
- April 1st vs Vancouver Canucks
Avalanche Injuries: O'Connor and Brindley Out
Logan O'Connor (hip) and Gavin Brindley (lower body) are both week-to-week with injuries, which could impact the team's depth.
Projected Avalanche Lines
- Artturi Lehkonen - Nathan MacKinnon - Martin Necas
- Gabriel Landeskog - Brock Nelson - Valeri Nichushkin
- Ross Colton - Jack Drury - Victor Olofsson
Parker Kelly - Zakhar Bardakov - Joel Kiviranta
Devon Toews - Cale Makar
Josh Manson - Brent Burns
Samuel Girard - Sam Malinski
Goaltenders
- Scott Wedgewood
- Mackenzie Blackwood
Projected Starters
- Confirmed: Scott Wedgewood (COL)
- Expected: Kevin Lankinen (VAN)
Upcoming Milestones
- Devon Toews: Just two games away from his 500th
- Nathan MacKinnon: Five games to reach 900
- Victor Olofsson: Five games needed for 400
- Brock Nelson: Seven assists for 300
How to Watch
- TV: Altitude TV
- Radio: 92.5 FM
So, who do you think will come out on top in this highly anticipated game? Will the Avalanche continue their winning streak, or will the Canucks pull off an upset? Let's find out! Don't forget to share your predictions and thoughts in the comments below!
