The Colorado Avalanche are rolling into December with serious momentum-and if November was any indication, this team isn’t just hot, they’re scorching. With an 18-1-6 record and 42 points in the bank, the Avs have built a comfortable six-point cushion atop the Central Division. They’re not just winning games-they’re dominating them.
Let’s break it down. Colorado’s +55 goal differential leads the league, and it’s not even close.
They’ve lit the lamp 103 times while only surrendering 55 goals. That kind of balance between offensive firepower and defensive discipline is the hallmark of a team that’s not just playoff-bound, but potentially built for a deep run.
And perhaps the most encouraging part? The injury bug that bit hard last season hasn’t found its way back-at least not yet.
Now, with December’s schedule underway, let’s dive into what’s happening around the team this week.
Next Up: Canucks Come to Town
Tuesday night, the Avalanche welcome the Vancouver Canucks to Ball Arena. These two clubs met earlier this season on November 9, when Colorado edged out a wild 5-4 overtime win. That night belonged to Nathan MacKinnon, who put on a show with five points, reminding everyone just how dangerous he can be when he’s in rhythm.
Vancouver, meanwhile, is limping into this one. They’ve dropped two straight and have just two wins in their last 10 outings (2-5-3).
Injuries have taken a toll, and it shows in their -16 goal differential. Currently second-to-last in the Pacific Division, the Canucks are looking for answers-but they may not find them in Colorado.
This will be the second of three meetings between the teams this season. They’ll wrap up the series on April 1, but right now, the Avs have a chance to sweep the season series early and keep building on their dominant start.
The “Wedge-Wall” is Real
One of the biggest stories quietly brewing in Colorado is between the pipes. Scott Wedgewood has gone from backup to breakout, stepping up in a big way during MacKenzie Blackwood’s absence-and he hasn’t let go of the spotlight since.
Even with Blackwood back in the mix, Wedgewood continues to deliver. His consistency and poise have earned him the nickname “Wedge-wall,” and it’s not just a catchy moniker-it’s backed up by highlight-reel stops and clutch performances.
One save in particular has Avalanche fans (and opponents) buzzing. During Colorado’s 4-1 win over the Islanders on November 16, Wedgewood came up with a jaw-dropping stop on the penalty kill that might just be in the running for save of the year. It was a moment that encapsulated his season so far: calm under pressure, technically sound, and absolutely game-changing.
Roster Watch: Illness Hits Key Players
While the Avs have largely avoided the injury woes that plagued them last season, Monday brought a bit of a scare on the health front. Three key forwards-Parker Kelly, Gabriel Landeskog, and Nathan MacKinnon-missed practice due to illness. It’s that time of year, and the flu bug might be making its rounds in the locker room.
All three are considered game-time decisions for Tuesday’s matchup against Vancouver. If any of them can’t go, the team may look to make an emergency call-up to fill the gaps.
Victor Olofsson also missed practice, though his absence was listed as maintenance-related. That usually signals a precautionary day off rather than anything serious, but it’s something to monitor as the week unfolds.
Bottom Line
The Avalanche are playing like a team with something to prove-and the results speak for themselves. With elite scoring, a stingy defense, and goaltending that’s turning heads, Colorado has set the tone for the rest of the league. December brings its own challenges, but if the Avs keep this level of play up, they’ll be a problem for anyone standing in their way.
Stay tuned-this team isn’t just winning games, they’re building something special.