Why the Avalanche's playoff fate may hinge on their opening stretch
Photo credit: Matthew Stockman / Mile High Sticking
Why the Colorado Avalanche's chances of securing a playoff berth may ultimately rest on how they perform during the opening month of the NHL regular season, with their early results potentially setting the tone for the rest of the year.
The Avalanche need to place a premium on starting the season strong, as falling behind early could force them into playing catch-up for the remainder of the year.
Why the Avalanche need to have a strong first month of October.
Nestor Quixtan from Mile High Sticking writes that the Avalanche have a chance to secure a playoff spot with a strong opening month of the 2025-26 season.
A year ago, they stumbled out of the gate with a disastrous 0-4 start, leaving them playing from behind right from the beginning.
"While the Avalanche caught up with a strong rest of the season, they couldn't overtake the Dallas Stars for the second spot in the division. Well, finishing second or third is largely inconsequential except for home-ice advantage." -Quixtan
That said, a strong opening month this season would go a long way in helping the Avalanche navigate the grind of the regular season. Starting fast would allow them to stay ahead of the pack and avoid an unnecessary battle with wild card contenders down the stretch.
"Colorado's first month includes six of 12 total gams against non-playoff teams (two against Utah, two against Boston, one against Buffalo, and one against Columbus). The Avalanche have a good opportunity to exit the month with eight to 10 wins. A 10-2 mark to start the season would be a phenomenal way to set the tone for what figures to be one of the most taxing seasons in a long time." -Quixtan
With September now here, the excitement is building as we're just weeks away from the return of NHL hockey.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 1 | 22 ANSWERS Why the Avalanche's playoff fate may hinge on their opening stretch Do you think the Avalanche are a lock to make the playoffs next season? | ||
| yes | 18 | 81.8 % |
| no | 4 | 18.2 % |
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