Avalanche send clear message with another dominating preseason performance
Photo credit: Colorado Hockey Now
The Colorado Avalanche sent a clear message to the league with another dominant performance, securing a convincing preseason win over the Dallas Stars on Saturday night.
The Avalanche made a strong statement on Saturday night, cruising to a 4-1 victory over their fierce division rival at Ball Arena.
Avalanche stay undefeated in preseason following Saturday night's dominant showing.
Nestor Quixtan from Mile High Sticking writes that the game was slow-paced for much of the first half, with the first period ending scoreless. Things picked up when prospect Gavin Brindley broke the deadlock midway through the second period.
"Brindley's goal was a welcome sight as the former Columbus Blue Jackets' draft pick will be looking to establish himself as the Avalanche's best prospect." -Quixtan
After the Stars evened the score late in the second period, the Avalanche responded with two quick goals. Artturi Lehkonen gave the team the lead, followed bby Zakhar Bardakov, one to watch this season, pushing it to 3-1.
Tristen Nielsen capped things off with an empty-net goal in the final minute to seal the 4-1 victory for the Avalanche.
"Fans got their first look at Brent Burns running the power play. He did well enough, but the Stars' penalty killers did a decent job of keeping the puck out of harm's way." -Quixtan
One of the highlights was the setup for Victor Olofsson's one-timer. While he didn't manage to convert, it offered an intriguing glimpse of his potential. If Olofsson can get that shot going, it could become a valuable weapon on the Avalanche's power play this season.
"One of the concerns heading into the season is goaltending. MacKenzie Blackwood's injury early in camp was hardly encouraging. As such, seeing Scott Wedgewood play a solid game was encouraging.
Similarly, Trent Miner came into the game in the third period and looked sharp. He stopped all six shots he faced. Miner wasn't forced to make huge saves, but played well and kept the Avalanche in the game." -Quixtan
Similarly, Trent Miner came into the game in the third period and looked sharp. He stopped all six shots he faced. Miner wasn't forced to make huge saves, but played well and kept the Avalanche in the game." -Quixtan
Overall, the Avalanche looked strong, blending regulars with a few promising newcomers. There's plenty of reason for optimism as the team moves into the next phase of training camp.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 28 | 20 ANSWERS Avalanche send clear message with another dominating preseason performance Is the NHL preseason too long? | ||
| yes | 14 | 70 % |
| no | 6 | 30 % |
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