Avalanche send huge warning to the Pacific Division's top team
Photo credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea / Imagn Images
With a commanding performance in their season opener, the Colorado Avalanche may have just sent a clear warning to the Pacific Division's powerhouse, the Los Angeles Kings, signalling that they are ready to compete at the highest level right from the start of the season.
Even though it was only the season opener, thanks to the Avalanche, concerns are already growing for the team in Hollywood.
The Colorado Avalanche just exposed the Los Angeles Kings in their home opener on Tuesday.
Tyler Kuehl from Daily Faceoff writes that on opening night of the 2025-26 season, the Los Angeles Kings hosted the Colorado Avalanche.
While the Kings managed to keep the overall pace of play competitive, conceding three goals in the second period proved too much to overcome, resulting in a 4-1 loss.
"It's hard to judge a team after just one loss, but how the Kings were beaten in their own barn gave some supporters the jitters, questioning whether this team has enough grit to make it to the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the fifth year in a row." -Kuehl
On Wednesday's edition of Daily Faceoff LIVE, Tyler Yaremchuk and Carter Hutton shared their insights on whether the Los Angeles Kings have what it takes to reach the postseason.
Yaremchuk went on to ask his cohost if he thought there was any chance that the Kings miss out on the playoffs this season.
"Zero. They are making the playoffs. This is a team that I think is getting in. I think they have the depth. They're gonna get there. I know it's a tricky start.
When I look at their top nine and where they're at up front defensively. For me, it's going to be Anton Forsberg and Darcy Kuemper. Darcy Kuemper's 35 years old. He's got a lot of wear and tear on him. He played a ton of games last year.
I think we'll see a little less of him if Forsberg can spot well. I truly feel this team is done. I don't think with Anze Kopitar and Quinton Byfield down the middle, they're going to be able to get it done. Adrian Kempe, where he's at, the contract talks. I just think this team is too good to miss the playoffs for me." -Hutton
When I look at their top nine and where they're at up front defensively. For me, it's going to be Anton Forsberg and Darcy Kuemper. Darcy Kuemper's 35 years old. He's got a lot of wear and tear on him. He played a ton of games last year.
I think we'll see a little less of him if Forsberg can spot well. I truly feel this team is done. I don't think with Anze Kopitar and Quinton Byfield down the middle, they're going to be able to get it done. Adrian Kempe, where he's at, the contract talks. I just think this team is too good to miss the playoffs for me." -Hutton
Analysts remain cautious about the team, particularly criticizing Ken Holland's moves on the blue line over the summer.
While there's some optimism, the consensus places the probability of the team missing the playoffs at around 15%. This is due in part to the competitive Pacific Division, where questions remain about whether Calgary, Vancouver, or Anaheim might claim that crucial third-place spot.
The team would also need to overcome a significant 21-point gap from last season to secure a playoff position.
One thing is certain, however, the Avalanche proved to be a team that means business.
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