Vegas set to expose the Avalanche's true form in upcoming preseason clash
Photo credit: Matthew Stockman / Vegas Hockey Knight
The Vegas Golden Knights are set to put the Colorado Avalanche to the test in their upcoming preseason on Tuesday, a matchup that could reveal the team's true form and offer an early glimpse of how they'll perform when the regular season gets going next week.
Tuesday's preseason clash between the Avalanche and Golden Knights offers a meaningful preview of how both teams are taking shape heading into the upcoming season.
Avalanche could preview their opening night roster in Tuesday's preseason game against the Golden Knights.
Ryan O'Hara from Vegas Hockey Knight writes that The Avalanche secured a 4-1 preseason win over the Dallas Stars Saturday night at Ball Arena, despite going 0-for-7 on the power play. It's worth noting, however, that the only regulars in Colorado's lineup were Ross Colton, Nathan MacKinnon, Artturi Lehkonen, and Brent Burns.
"The Golden Knights enter Tuesday's contest following a narrow 2-1 victory over the San Jose Sharks on Friday. However, it is the lineup from the previous night that likely offers a clearer preview of what to expect. In that game, a 3-2 win over the Utah Mammoth at T-Mobile Arena, Jack Eichel-currently in line for a new contract-delivered an impressive three-point performance, including two goals. Ivan Barbashev contributed two points, while Shea Theodore added a goal and an assist. Mitch Marner also registered an assist, continuing to build chemistry with his new teammates." -O'Hara
With most regulars expected to play Tuesday, both teams should be near full strength. The Golden Knights only missed Kaedan Korczak in their last game, and Colorado fans can anticipate a fast-paced, hard-fought preseason preview of regular-season intensity.
"Colorado remains undefeated in preseason play, a streak that includes victories in both Rookie Showcase matchups against the Golden Knights and the Mammoth. However, the Avalanche will be without several regular starters on Tuesday due to injury. Starting goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood continues to rehab a lower-body injury sustained during the summer, while forward Logan O'Connor-recovering from offseason hip surgery-is not expected to return for approximately another month." -O'Hara
Defenseman Samuel Girard is dealing with a lower-body injury but rejoined the main practice group in a red non-contact jersey, indicating progress in his recovery.
Scott Wedgewood is expected to start in net for the Avalanche, with Trent Miner serving as his backup.
"Based on Sunday's practice, Colorado may feature a top line of MacKinnon, Lehkonen, and Martin Nečas. In recent sessions, the Avalanche have also experimented with rotating Lehkonen and Valeri Nichushkin on the left wing, so it remains to be seen which combination they'll go with on Tuesday." -O'Hara
Puck drop is set for Tuesday at 6 p.m. MT from Ball Arena.
Source:
Vegas Hockey Knight
Golden Knights vs. Avalanche: What to expect in Tuesday's preseason showdown
Vegas Hockey Knight
Golden Knights vs. Avalanche: What to expect in Tuesday's preseason showdown
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SEPTEMBRE 30 | 20 ANSWERS Vegas set to expose the Avalanche's true form in upcoming preseason clash Will the Avalanche preview their opening night roster in Tuesday's preseason game against the Golden Knights? | ||
| yes | 9 | 45 % |
| no | 11 | 55 % |
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