The wait is finally over as the highly anticipated new Quebec Nordiques jersey makes its debut, thrilling fans who have longed for a glimpse of nostalgia. The first match featuring the new threads is set against the Hartford Whalers, known today as the Carolina Hurricanes. This matchup not only revives memories of the early ’90s NHL but also promises to showcase two strong teams, where the pace of play will be significantly quicker than in the past.
The Colorado Avalanche have started the season impressively with a record of 5-0-2, while the Carolina Hurricanes are close behind at 5-1-0. Fans can tune in to watch the game at 7:00 p.m. MT on Altitude, ESPN+, or listen on Altitude Sports Radio at 92.5 FM.
The Avalanche are coming off a game against the Utah Mammoth that left some disappointment, particularly due to a controversial offside call that negated Gabe Landeskog’s first goal in three years. Coach Jared Bednar voiced his frustration with the decision, labeling it as “bogus” and “nonsense.” Despite this setback, the team has remained unbeaten in regulation, highlighting a promising start to the season.
Tonight’s game provides an opportunity for Landeskog and the second line to rebound against a formidable Hurricanes squad. One highlight for the fans will be the appearance of Scott Wedgewood in his vintage goalie gear, who has been a standout in net, boasting the best goals against average (1.86) and the fourth-best save percentage (.927) in the NHL.
The projected lineup for the Avalanche includes:
– Artturi Lehkonen — Nathan MacKinnon — Martin Necas
– Gabe Landeskog — Brock Nelson — Valeri Nichushkin
– Ross Colton — Jack Drury — Viktor Olofsson
– Parker Kelly — Zakhar Bardakov — Gavin Brindley
– Devon Toews — Cale Makar
– Josh Manson — Brent Burns
– Ilya Solovyov — Sam Malinski
– Goalies: Scott Wedgewood, Trent Miner
The Carolina Hurricanes also boast a solid record, with just one regulation loss in their first six games, which came against the Vegas Golden Knights. Their roster features skilled players such as Seth Jarvis, Sebastian Aho, and Shayne Gostisbehere, along with K’Andre Miller, who has been contributing offensively. Head coach Jackie Kay emphasizes that the Hurricanes excel in puck possession, a strategy that will be crucial for them in this upcoming matchup.
Additionally, Brent Burns will receive recognition for playing in his 1,500th career game prior to tonight’s faceoff, adding an extra layer of excitement to the occasion.
As the two teams face off, the stage is set not only for a nostalgic jersey reveal but also for an encounter that could ignite a budding rivalry. With high stakes and skilled players on both sides, fans are in for an exhilarating night of hockey.