The Colorado Avalanche vs. Columbus Blue Jackets
The Colorado Avalanche are set to continue their winning momentum with an upcoming game against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena. This matchup coincides with a noteworthy personal achievement for their star defenseman, Cale Makar, as this Thursday marks Makar’s 400th game in the NHL.
Cale Makar’s Milestone
This significant benchmark is shared with only a handful of elite players in the history of the league. In the first 400 games of his career, only Paul Coffey and Bobby Orr have surpassed Makar in total points tallied. Makar has outperformed all but four others—Ray Bourque, Denis Potvin, Coffey, and Orr—in goals scored.
Current Season Performance
Having started the season with a record of three wins, no losses, and one overtime loss (3-0-1), the Avalanche are poised to extend their winning streak, while the Blue Jackets sit at a disappointing 1-2 record.
Offensive Dynamics
The offensive dynamism of Colorado has been prominently displayed through the performance of Nathan MacKinnon and Martin Nečas, who have collectively amassed 16 points in just four games. In their recent victory against the Buffalo Sabers, MacKinnon scored twice and nearly achieved a hat trick, while Nečas contributed with two assists.
Despite a disallowed goal due to an offside call, the duo’s chemistry has been apparent.
Contract Concerns
There is understandable concern among Avalanche supporters regarding Nečas’ contract situation, as he is set to become an unrestricted free agent after this season. Given the recent history of Mikko Rantanen’s contract negotiations, fans are anxious about potentially losing another key player.
However, Nečas expressed admiration for MacKinnon’s game, indicating his desire to remain in Colorado. He referenced studying MacKinnon’s style during his time with the Carolina Hurricanes, adding hopeful expectations for a contract renewal.
Team Contributions
In praising his linemate Nečas after the Sabers game, MacKinnon highlighted the essential role played by Artturi Lehkonen in their success. MacKinnon noted that Lehkonen’s positioning and ability to create opportunities in front of the net contribute significantly to their offensive capabilities.
Special Teams and Goaltending
On the subject of special teams, Colorado’s power play has had a rocky start this season. However, their upcoming encounter with Columbus, whose penalty kill has struggled, provides an opportunity for improvement. The Blue Jackets allowed two power-play goals in their recent loss to the New Jersey Devils, both at crucial moments just seconds after power plays were claimed.
In terms of goaltending, Scott Wedgewood has shown exceptional form since transferring to Colorado from the Nashville Predators, boasting a season record of 3-0-1 with impressive stats that include a 1.72 goals-against average and a .935 save percentage. Yet, as the season progresses, Wedgewood may require rest, which might allow for Trent Miner, 24, to step in.
Miner had a solid season with the Colorado Eagles, finishing with a record of 22 wins and 10 losses. While fans speculated that he would start against Buffalo, Wedgewood performed adequately. The crucial question is whether Miner can maintain the team’s performance should the defense falter, a challenge yet to be determined.
