Avalanche vs. Jets: Key Matchup Preview
The Colorado Avalanche (48-13-10) are set to wrap up their home-and-home series against the Winnipeg Jets (30-30-12) with puck drop scheduled for 5:08 p.m. MT. This clash offers the Avalanche a chance to clinch the season series against the Jets for the first time since the 2021-22 season.
Recent Performances
In their last encounter, the Avalanche showcased resilience by overcoming an early deficit to secure a 3-2 victory. Nathan MacKinnon was the hero, netting two crucial third-period goals, while Mackenzie Blackwood stood firm with 22 saves, marking his third win in the current road trip.
Goaltending Duel
The goaltending situation remains a bit of a mystery due to the absence of a morning skate or practice. However, fans might witness another face-off between Connor Hellebuyck and Mackenzie Blackwood. Hellebuyck has a solid track record against Colorado, while Blackwood looks to improve his recent stats against the Jets.
Season Series Recap
- Dec. 19 vs Winnipeg Jets (W, 3-2)
- March 14 at Winnipeg Jets (L, 3-1)
- March 26 at Winnipeg Jets (W, 3-2)
- March 28 vs Winnipeg Jets
Injury Report
Nicolas Roy is sidelined with an upper-body injury and will miss some time.
Projected Avalanche Lines
- Gabriel Landeskog - Nathan MacKinnon - Martin Necas
- Ross Colton - Brock Nelson - Valeri Nichushkin
- Artturi Lehkonen - Nazem Kadri - Logan O’Connor
- Parker Kelly - Jack Drury - Joel Kiviranta
Defensive Pairings
- Brett Kulak - Cale Makar
- Devon Toews - Sam Malinski
- Josh Manson - Brent Burns
Goaltenders
- Mackenzie Blackwood
- Scott Wedgewood
Milestone Watch
Several Avalanche players are on the brink of career milestones:
- Josh Manson is 2 points away from 200 and 3 games from 700.
- Cale Makar needs just 1 point to reach 500.
- Valeri Nichushkin is 3 assists shy of 200.
- Devon Toews requires 3 points to hit 300.
- Ross Colton is approaching 400 games, needing 7 more.
The Avalanche are poised for a strong finish in this season series. With key players on the cusp of milestones and a chance to assert dominance over the Jets, tonight's game promises to be an exciting chapter in their rivalry.