The Colorado Avalanche are set for an exciting matchup against the Columbus Blue Jackets in Columbus, as the latter seeks their first home victory of the 2025-26 season. Meanwhile, the Avalanche have started the season with impressive momentum, securing at least a point in each of their first four games.
With a record of 3-0-1, the Avalanche find themselves in strong form, led by standout players Nathan MacKinnon and Martin Necas, who are tied for third place in the league with eight points each. Their chemistry on the ice, particularly in coordination with Artturi Lehkonen, has drawn comparisons to the seamless teamwork seen in Formula 1 racing.
Despite a scare for Avalanche fans when Gabe Landeskog missed practice recently, head coach Jared Bednar eased concerns by confirming that it was a planned maintenance day for the captain. Additionally, there is optimism around Brock Nelson, whose status is uncertain after sustaining a hand injury, described as merely “a flesh wound” by Bednar. If Nelson is unable to play, Ross Colton is expected to take his spot in the lineup.
Goaltender Scott Wedgewood will start for the Avalanche, and his performance has exceeded expectations this season, providing a reassuring presence for the team as MacKenzie Blackwood continues to recover.
The anticipated lineup for the Avalanche includes:
– Artturi Lehkonen — Nathan MacKinnon — Martin Necas
– Gabe Landeskog — Brock Nelson — Valeri Nichushkin
– Ross Colton — Jack Drury — Viktor Olofsson
– Joel Kiviranta — Parker Kelly — Gavin Brindley
– Defense: Devon Toews — Cale Makar; Josh Manson — Brent Burns; Ilya Solovyov — Sam Malinski
– Goaltender: Scott Wedgewood
On the other hand, the Blue Jackets hold a record of 1-2-0 and feature their own star player, defenseman Zach Werensky, who has been instrumental on the blue line and is a candidate for the Norris Trophy. Werensky has three points in three games so far, making him a key player to watch as the Avalanche look to capitalize on the matchup.
Columbus also boasts a recent standout in Kirill Marchenko, who netted a hat trick against the Minnesota Wild last weekend, indicating he remains a formidable threat on the ice following a career season.
Elvis Merzlikins is slated to start in goal for the Blue Jackets, coming off a win despite facing four goals from the Wild, but he recorded an impressive .923 save percentage.
As both teams prepare to clash, the game promises to be a showcase of talent and drive, with each side eager to leave a mark early in the season. Fans on both sides are hopeful for an electrifying contest that might set the tone for the rest of the season.