October 11th 2024.
The Avalanche were already facing a daunting challenge at the start of the season, but things got even tougher after just one game. Jonathan Drouin, who had a breakout year and was one of the biggest success stories in the NHL last season, suffered an upper-body injury during the season opener against the Las Vegas Golden Knights. As a result, he will be sitting out for at least the next two games, including the home opener against the Columbus Blue Jackets and a game against the New York Islanders.
This injury adds to the growing list of key players that the Avalanche are currently missing. Valeri Nichushkin and Artturi Lehkonen, who have been integral parts of the top-six forward group for the past two seasons, are already out of commission. And on top of that, captain Gabe Landeskog, who has been a mainstay in that role for most of his career, is also unavailable.
Head coach Jared Bednar acknowledged the impact of these absences, stating that it certainly doesn't make things easier for the team. He emphasized the importance of every player in the lineup stepping up and excelling in their respective roles in order for the team to be successful.
Drouin's impressive performance last season helped to fill the void left by Landeskog's absence, as well as the occasional absences of Nichushkin and Lehkonen. With four of the team's top-seven forwards currently out, the Avalanche will need others to step up and fill the gaps.
During practice, Nikolai Kovalenko, who made his regular-season NHL debut against the Golden Knights, took Drouin's spot on the top line. Meanwhile, Ross Colton, typically the team's third-line center, moved up to the second line alongside Casey Mittelstadt and rookie Calum Ritchie. This is a familiar role for Colton, who often played a similar role during his time with the Tampa Bay Lightning before signing with the Avalanche.
Colton acknowledged that there are some differences playing as a winger instead of a center, but he is willing to do whatever is necessary to help the team. Parker Kelly, who also made his NHL center debut against the Golden Knights, moved up from the fourth line to take Colton's usual spot on the third line during practice. The team only had 11 healthy forwards available for practice, so Bednar mentioned the possibility of playing with 11 forwards and seven defensemen for their next game against Columbus.
In order to fill their 23rd roster spot, the Avalanche claimed goaltender Kaapo Kahkonen from the Winnipeg Jets on waivers. However, his arrival in Denver is uncertain due to immigration issues. This addition puts the team in a tricky situation, as they now have three goaltenders on their roster.
Bednar expressed that he is looking for improvement from both goaltenders, as they both had a rough performance in the season opener against the Golden Knights. Starter Alexandar Georgiev allowed five goals on 16 shots in just two periods, and backup Justus Annunen also had a tough time, allowing two goals on just four shots (plus one that was negated due to a penalty). Georgiev had a strong run of performances after a rough game in the first round of playoffs last season, and he is determined to bounce back from this setback.
Despite the challenges and uncertainties, the Avalanche remain focused on their ultimate goal of winning hockey games. They are constantly looking for ways to improve, whether it be through bringing in new players or helping current players elevate their game. As the season continues, the team remains committed to overcoming any obstacles in their path.
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