November 17th 2024.
The Colorado Avalanche have faced a challenging season with injuries and availability issues, but have managed to stay afloat in the NHL standings. Now, with some key players returning, the Avs are looking to secure a spot in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs and reestablish themselves as contenders for the championship.
However, there are still some important questions that need to be answered before the trade deadline. These decisions will have a significant impact on the team's final roster and their chances of making another title run in the next few years.
One of the biggest questions is whether captain Gabe Landeskog will return to the lineup. While the Avs remain optimistic about his recovery from knee cartilage surgery, there is no definite timeline for his return. This has led to speculation about whether he will return at all this season, and what kind of impact he will have if he does.
The Avs would undoubtedly benefit from Landeskog's return, both on and off the ice. His presence in the locker room would be a huge morale boost for the team, and his skills on the ice would make an already strong roster even stronger. However, there are concerns about whether he will be able to play at the same level as before his injury.
If Landeskog is unable to return, the Avs will have some salary cap flexibility to potentially make changes to the roster. This would also open up opportunities for other players to step up and fill the void left by their captain.
Another important question is the status of the goaltenders. While Alexandar Georgiev and Justus Annunen have shown promise, their performances have been inconsistent. The Avs are hoping they will continue to improve and prove themselves as reliable netminders, but if not, the team may need to make other moves to solidify the position.
The Avs also have to consider where Ross Colton will fit into the lineup once he returns from injury. The young center had been playing well before his injury, but with other players stepping up in his absence, there may not be a clear spot for him. This decision could also be impacted by Landeskog's return and the team's overall depth at center.
Finally, the team must address their defensive depth. While they made some moves in the offseason to improve in this area, injuries and underperformance have left some holes in the defense. The Avs may need to make some changes before the deadline to strengthen their blue line and give themselves the best chance at a deep playoff run.
Overall, the Avs have a lot to consider as they approach the trade deadline and the rest of the season. With key players returning and potential changes to the roster, the team will need to carefully navigate these decisions to secure their spot in the playoffs and make a run for the Stanley Cup. Fans can sign up for the Avalanche Insider to stay updated on all the latest news and analysis.
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