Fans outraged as Avalanche disrespected in latest NHL power rankings
Photo credit: Jonathan Kozub / NHLI
The latest NHL power rankings, released on Friday, delivered a surprising sight to the Colorado Avalanche, placing them lower than many expected and sparking debate among fans and analysts who believe the team deserves far more respect based on their roster strength and recent performance.
The Avalanche made the top 10 in NHL.com's latest rankings, but placed much lower than many fans anticipated.
Avalanche disrespected in latest NHL announcement.
Nestor Quixtan from Mile High Sticking writes that the Avalanche secured the No. 6 position in NHL.com's latest power rankings, finishing ahead of top-tier teams like the Winnipeg Jets (7th), Tampa Bay Lightning (8th), and Toronto Maple Leafs (9th).
"The ranking, while solid, is intriguing. The Avalanche boast two of the world's best players in former Hart Trophy winner Nathan MacKinnon and reigning Norris Trophy winner Cale Makar. But two players do not a Stanley Cup winner make." -Quixtan
Still, it's surprising the Avalanche didn't break into the top five. While they did fall in the first round last postseason, that outcome had more to do with running into a strong Dallas Stars squad than any major shortcomings on Colorado's part.
So, the question remains: Are the Colorado Avalanche truly a top-five team?
The answer largely depends on how you define a top-five team. If the rankings are based strictly on playoff results, then the four Conference Finalists naturally take the top spots, likely leaving just one place for a second-round exit.
However, if star power and sheer talent are the criteria, the Avalanche absolutely deserve a spot near the top of the NHL hierarchy.
"Beyond MacKinnon and Makar, the Avalanche have one of the league's best defenders in Devon Toews. The rest of the blue line is underrated. Josh Manson and Samuel Girard are still solid, if unspectacular, blue liners.
As for the forward group, the list of names is enough to be the envy of every NHL coach. Artturi Lehkonen, Valeri Nichushkin, and Brock Nelson could easily slide into any team's top six. But the most significant name of all is Gabriel Landeskog." -Quixtan
As for the forward group, the list of names is enough to be the envy of every NHL coach. Artturi Lehkonen, Valeri Nichushkin, and Brock Nelson could easily slide into any team's top six. But the most significant name of all is Gabriel Landeskog." -Quixtan
All eyes will be on where the Avalanche land in the next NHL power rankings, with plenty of opportunity for them to reclaim their place among the league's elite.
| POLL | ||
AOUT 2 | 25 ANSWERS Fans outraged as Avalanche disrespected in latest NHL power rankings In your opinion, are the Avalanche currently a top 5 team in the NHL? | ||
| yes | 18 | 72 % |
| no | 7 | 28 % |
| List of polls | ||
TRENDING NOW
