The Colorado Avalanche are poised to take on the Utah Mammoth tonight, as one of two impressive streaks comes to an end. Currently, the Avalanche have a perfect record, winning all three of their road games, while the Mammoth have maintained an unblemished 3-0-0 record at their home ground, the Delta Center.
After a successful home victory, the Avalanche aim to extend their lead against their division rivals. In their previous encounter on October 9 at Ball Arena, Colorado edged out the Mammoth with a narrow 2-1 win. For the Avs, goaltender Scott Wedgewood is expected to continue his impressive performance, sporting a 5-0-1 record and having played every minute of the season so far. His standout play has solidified him as one of the top goalies in the early part of the season. Since Mackenzie Blackwood did not make the trip, Trent Miner is also available for head coach Jared Bednar.
During their last match, the Mammoth held a significant advantage in shots with 33 to Colorado’s 27, managing to limit the Avalanche to just 13 shots over the final two periods. Wedgewood’s remarkable 32-save performance was pivotal, and Nathan MacKinnon’s goal early in the third secured the victory for Colorado.
The Avalanche will be looking to maintain their momentum despite the absence of key players including Logan O’Connor, Joel Kiviranta, and Samuel Girard. However, there is optimism regarding Blackwood’s potential return to the lineup soon. Fans can expect the roster to stay largely unchanged from Saturday’s game, featuring Josh Manson and Brent Burns on the second defensive pair, and Ilya Solovyov teaming up with Sam Malinski on the third.
On the opposing side, the Mammoth are in excellent form, led by Nick Schmaltz, who has accrued nine points across six games while playing alongside center Barrett Hayton and Clayton Keller on the top line. Karel Vejmelka is anticipated to return in goal for the Mammoth after securing victories in his last three starts.
As both teams battle it out, fans can look forward to an exciting matchup that will test both their strengths and resolve. The outcome will showcase whether the Avalanche can continue their road success or if the Mammoth will uphold their flawless home streak.