Ball Arena is set to host an exciting matchup between the NHL’s top two defensive teams on Monday, as the Colorado Avalanche face off against the Los Angeles Kings. The Avalanche are currently leading the league in both defense and total offense, having allowed only 81 goals in 37 games. The Kings are the only other team with fewer than 100 goals against, conceding 92.
Both teams come into this game on the heels of impressive offensive performances. It remains to be seen whether their strong defenses will prevail or if the offensives will dominate the game. Colorado recently achieved a thrilling 6-5 victory in a shootout against the Vegas Golden Knights, showcasing their resilience by coming back from being down multiple times during the game. Key contributors in that victory included Artturi Lehkonen, who tied the game late, and Nathan MacKinnon, who recorded three points.
The Avalanche are riding a remarkable 13-game home winning streak and are on a seven-game overall winning streak, with only two regulation losses so far this season. Their campaign began with a solid 4-1 win against the Kings on the road, adding to the anticipation for this rematch.
Conversely, the Kings have faced a more challenging season, currently sitting at 4-4-2 in their last ten games. They have been without starting goalie Darcy Kuemper for two weeks, which has forced them to rely on backup Anton Forsberg. Forsberg has stepped up, winning two of his last three games and currently holds a record of 6-5-3 with a .905 save percentage.
In goal, Forsberg will once again face off against Colorado’s Mackenzie Blackwood, who boasts an impressive record of 11-1-1 this season along with a .924 save percentage and two shutouts. Additionally, the Avalanche are making changes to their forward lineup, reverting to strategies used earlier in the season to optimize their attack. Gavin Brindley will be on the fourth line, while Jack Drury returns to the third line, providing fresh dynamics to their offensive play.
As both teams prepare for this anticipated clash, fans can expect a thrilling battle that could have significant implications as they head into the latter half of the season. With both teams showcasing their strength and skill, the outcome remains uncertain but undeniably exciting.