Could the newest NHL team be the Avalanche's ultimate challenge next season? Latest report suggests so
Photo credit: AP Photo / Rick Egan
The Utah Mammoth, a key Central Division rival of the Colorado Avalanche, boosted their lineup with a blockbuster trade late Wednesday night.
In a surprising move, the Mammoth acquired J.J. Peterka from the Buffalo Sabres without giving up their fourth-overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft or sacrificing any current roster players.
Should the Avalanche be worried about the Mammoth?
Nestor Quixtan from Mile High Sticking writes that for the Avalanche, this signals that a division rival has made a significant upgrade this offseason, intensifying the battle for playoff spots in the Central Division.
This trade doesn't guarantee that Utah will overtake the Avalanche in the central, but it does mean Colorado will have tougher competition within their own division.
"The top three won't likely change. The Dallas Stars and Winnipeg Jets are still solid clubs. Now, I will say that I expect both clubs to regress somewhat next season. By that, I mean Dallas will not be quite as formidable as they were this season. That leaves the Colorado Avalanche. The Avs will practically ice the same lineup next season. There will be some changes, like all teams, but nothing earth-shattering. That situation means the top three seeds in the Central Division could be spoken for: Dallas, Winnipeg, and Colorado, regardless of the final order of seeding." -Quixtan
When it comes to Utah, the Mammoth boast a young and highly skilled roster, positioning them to be serious contenders as early as next season. With just a few key additions, most importantly a reliable starting goaltender, they could become a genuine playoff threat.
"But beyond that, Utah could add pressure to the scarce playoff spots in the West. The Avalanche will need to start the season strong. Another 0-4 start like this past year could derail the Avalanche's chances at securing a playoff spot. While no one foresees Colorado missing the playoffs, a rough start could turn a strong season into a slogfest." -Quixtan
The Avalanche can't afford to spend next season playing catch-up and battling for position. Ideally, they come out strong and have their playoff spot firmly secured by the time the Olympic break arrives.
By then, teams like Utah, St. Louis, and Minnesota can battle it out among themselves for the wild card spots, leaving the Avalanche in a more secure position.
| POLL | ||
JUIN 28 | 16 ANSWERS Could the newest NHL team be the Avalanche's ultimate challenge next season? Latest report suggests so Do you see the Utah Mammoth finishing in the top three of the Central Division next season? | ||
| yes | 4 | 25 % |
| no | 12 | 75 % |
| List of polls | ||
TRENDING NOW
