December 8th 2024.
The Colorado Avalanche has faced numerous challenges this season, including injuries and struggles with their goaltending. However, despite these obstacles, they have proven themselves to be one of the top teams in the NHL from the second period until the end of regulation. Unfortunately, their success in the later periods is overshadowed by their poor performance in the first period.
Currently, the Avalanche ranks among the worst teams in the league in the first period, having allowed 42 goals in that timeframe. This is significantly higher than the next closest teams, the San Jose Sharks and the Pittsburgh Penguins. On the flip side, the Avalanche have only scored 22 goals in the first period, placing them in the middle of the pack. This drastic difference in goal differentials only emphasizes the issue at hand.
Defenseman Devon Toews acknowledged the impact of their slow starts, stating that consistency is crucial in the NHL. The team's struggles in the first period cannot be ignored and require further investigation. As the season progresses, the Avalanche has now played one-third of their games and have allowed 12 more goals in the first period than the third-worst team in the league. This is a concerning statistic that cannot be brushed off as a short-term trend.
Coach Jared Bednar also recognizes the problem and has addressed it with the team. While the Avalanche has shown improvement in some first periods, recent games have proven otherwise. In their last 14 games, they have only led after the first intermission once. This trend is not sustainable if they want to continue being a top team in the league.
One of the main reasons for their struggles in the first period is their goaltending. Bednar has had to pull his starting goalie five times in 27 games, a significant increase compared to last season. The team has also not been as dominant in the first period, as they have been in previous years. This is evident in their expected goals and shot attempt percentages, which have dropped significantly in the first period.
Scott Wedgewood's performance in their recent game against the Carolina Hurricanes was a bright spot in an otherwise sluggish first period. However, the team was unable to recover from the poor start, ultimately leading to a loss. Bednar acknowledges the need for improvement and is working with the team to find a solution.
The Avalanche's struggles in the first period highlight the impact of their injuries and goaltending issues. But with the return of key players and improved performances from their goaltenders, there is hope for a turnaround. However, the rest of the team must also step up and find ways to improve their play in the first period. As the season progresses, it will be crucial for the Avalanche to address this issue before it becomes too late. Stay updated on all things Avalanche by signing up for the Avalanche Insider.
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