Game Preview: Colorado Avalanche vs. Chicago Blackhawks
On November 23, 2025, the Colorado Avalanche host the Chicago Blackhawks for the only time this regular season at the United Center in Chicago. This matchup comes as the Avalanche, currently holding a record of 38 wins, 10 losses, and 9 overtime losses, continue their busy stretch of games, facing their third straight Central Division rival in just four days.
Recent Performance
The Avalanche’s performance over the past four games has resulted in a split record of 2-2 for February, a situation exacerbated by the recent Olympic break that limited their game play this month. After suffering a disheartening 5-2 loss to the Minnesota Wild, where goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood was tested heavily yet made 31 saves, the Avalanche are eager for a victory to avoid their second sub-.500 month in a row.
Coach Jared Bednar expressed frustration over missed opportunities in the standings following the Minnesota game, noting how crucial today’s match is for their playoff positioning.
Blackhawks’ Struggles
For the visiting Blackhawks, who stand at 22 wins, 27 losses, and 9 overtime losses, the situation is equally precarious as they find themselves in seventh place in the Central Division, just two points ahead of the struggling St. Louis Blues. The Blackhawks started the year strong but faltered afterward, winning only a few games before entering the Olympic break. Their most recent contest saw them fall 4-2 to the Nashville Predators, a challenging outcome as they now embark on a five-game road trip.
Key Players
A key player for Chicago, Connor Bedard, has been pivotal despite his exclusion from the Canadian Olympic roster. Scoring 24 goals this season, he leads his team in both assists and points and is expected to continue making significant contributions. On the goaltending front, Spencer Knight has taken a leading role, displaying potential in this first full season with Chicago.
Game Details
This afternoon’s game is set to kick off at 4:00 PM MST and will be broadcast across various platforms, including ALT and CHSN in their respective broadcast areas. Fans will also have an opportunity to listen via Altitude Sports Radio.
For the Avalanche lineup, Nathan MacKinnon returns, maintaining a league-leading total of 40 goals alongside Martin Nečas, who aims to build on his recent success of scoring twice against Minnesota. The game will also feature key defensive pairings that should test the Blackhawks’ offense.
Playoff Implications
With playoff contention becoming tighter by the day, both teams recognize the importance of securing points, particularly the Avalanche, who wish to fend off the pursuit from the Wild and the Dallas Stars. With only two games separating them at the top of the Central Division, today’s showdown is a critical one as the playoffs loom closer on the horizon.
