The Colorado Avalanche are gearing up for an exciting matchup against the Montréal Canadiens this afternoon, despite a recent setback. After a stunning ten-game winning streak, the Avs saw it end with a close 3-2 shootout loss to the Minnesota Wild. Nathan MacKinnon, who leads the NHL with 19 goals, and Gabe Landeskog, whose heroic equalizer sent the game to shootout, have been key players despite the loss. Even with the defeat, Colorado earned a point, making them the first team in the league to reach 40 standings points.
Tonight’s clash is set to begin at 1:00 P.M. MST/3:00 P.M. EST, and fans can catch the game on ALT, ESPN+, and various radio stations, including Altitude Sports Radio. The Avalanche currently maintain their position atop the NHL standings and the Western Conference but face stiff competition from teams like Dallas and Minnesota. A win against Montréal would bolster their lead in the Central Division and allow them to secure three out of a potential four points during their back-to-back games.
Additionally, today’s game is significant as it marks part of the Heritage Series celebrated during the Avalanche’s 30th anniversary season. The Avalanche will don their vintage Quebec Nordiques uniforms, adding a nostalgic touch to the contest, reminiscent of a time when these teams were fierce rivals.
For the Avalanche, this match represents the third game in four nights, and with Scott Wedgewood playing in the last game, Mackenzie Blackwood is expected to take the net this time. The projected lineup forwards includes notable names such as MacKinnon and Landeskog, while the defensive pairing remains robust with Cale Makar and Devon Toews leading the charge.
On the flip side, the Canadiens, currently positioned second in the Atlantic Division, have faced challenges lately, losing seven of their last eight games before bouncing back with a convincing 4-1 victory against the Vegas Golden Knights. However, injuries have plagued the team, with key players like Alex Newhook and Kirby Dach sidelined, which has hindered Montréal’s ability to capitalize on their early season momentum.
Despite the adversity, defenseman Lane Hutson has emerged as a bright spot for the Canadiens, demonstrating impressive skill and scoring 19 points, marking him as a player to watch. Leading goal-scorer Cole Caufield, with 14 goals this season, and captain Nick Suzuki are also critical to Montreal’s offense. Notably, the Canadiens have had success in recent matchups against the Avalanche, winning three of the last four, including a victory earlier this year.
In summary, this matchup not only carries important implications for standings but also evokes a sense of history and rivalry between two storied franchises. Fans can look forward to an action-packed game filled with potential storylines and pivotal plays from both sides. As the Avalanche hope to regain their winning momentum, the Canadiens will aim to harness their current form and turn this season back around despite their recent struggles.