Avs Hockey and Morning Coffee in Buffalo: A Potential Bounce-Back Performance
The Colorado Avalanche are gearing up for a matinee showdown with the Buffalo Sabres, kicking off at 12:30 p.m. ET. This means Avalanche fans will be enjoying their hockey before lunch! But it's not just about the game; it's about the potential for a much-needed win. The Avalanche, currently sitting at 2-0-1, are looking to bounce back from their recent loss to the Dallas Stars, where they dominated possession but couldn't break through Jake Oettinger's net.
Key Players to Watch:
- Val Nichushkin: He had a strong game against Dallas, showing the form that Avs fans have come to expect. Keep an eye on him today, as he could be a key factor in Colorado's special teams success.
- Scott Wedgewood: He's been a reliable starter for the Avalanche, and with MacKenzie Blackwood still on the mend, he might be in for another start. His performance will be crucial to the team's chances.
The Opponent: Buffalo Sabres
The Sabres, currently 0-2-0, are a familiar sight at the bottom of the standings. They have some scoring talent, notably Tage Thompson, and a familiar face in Bowen Byram on defense. However, they are expected to miss the playoffs for a 15th consecutive season, which adds an intriguing dynamic to the game.
Projected Lineup:
- Colorado Avalanche: Artturi Lehkonen, Nathan MacKinnon, Martin Necas; Gabe Landeskog, Brock Nelson, Valeri Nichushkin; Ross Colton, Jack Drury, Viktor Olofsson; Joel Kiviranta, Parker Kelly, Gavin Brindley; Devon Toews, Cale Makar; Sam Malinski, Josh Manson; Ilya Solovyov, Brent Burns; Scott Wedgewood, Trent Miner
- Buffalo Sabres: Alex Lyon, Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen
Editor's Note: Gavin Brindley scored his first career NHL goal against the Dallas Stars, and the Avalanche have made no roster changes, recalling Jack Ahcan. This suggests that Brindley has earned his spot on the team.
The Bottom Line:
The Avalanche have to continue their winning ways against teams they are clearly better than. With a strong special teams performance expected and a reliable starting goalie, they have the tools to secure a win. But the Sabres, with their scoring talent, could provide a challenge. It's a game that promises to be a thrilling matinee for hockey fans in Buffalo!
