Avs at the Olympics, Top of the NHL, and What Still Needs Fixing
The Colorado Avalanche are riding high. With a 37-9-9 record, they’ve been perched atop the NHL standings for over three months straight - a level of sustained dominance that doesn’t happen by accident. But even the best teams have things to clean up, and with the Olympic break in full swing, now’s a good time to take stock of where the Avs stand - and where they still need to tighten the bolts.
Let’s start with the international stage.
Avs Represent on Olympic Opening Day
Three Avalanche players kicked off their Olympic campaigns in style. Artturi Lehkonen and Joel Kiviranta suited up for their respective squads, while captain Gabriel Landeskog made a strong return to international play.
Lehkonen notched an assist, and Landeskog found the back of the net - both plays coming on the power play. It’s a good sign for Avs fans to see their guys contributing early, especially Landeskog, whose presence on the ice always seems to elevate the energy.
He’s still working his way back to peak form, but that power-play goal? That’s vintage Gabe.
Three Reasons the Avs Are No. 1
1. Depth That Delivers
This isn’t just a top-heavy team. Sure, the stars shine - you know the names - but Colorado’s depth has been a difference-maker all season. Whether it’s the third line chipping in timely goals or the second pair logging tough minutes against top opponents, the Avs have gotten meaningful contributions up and down the lineup.
2. Elite Special Teams
The power play has been clicking, and the penalty kill has held strong. When you’re converting with the man advantage and shutting things down when short-handed, you’re winning the margins - and that’s where elite teams separate themselves. Colorado’s special teams have consistently tilted the ice in their favor.
3. Goaltending Stability
Goaltending was a question mark heading into the season, but it’s become a steadying force. The Avs have gotten consistent play between the pipes, and while the defense in front has certainly helped, you still need your goalie to make the big saves. So far, they’ve gotten them.
But There Are Still Concerns
Even great teams have areas to address, and Colorado isn’t immune.
1. Inconsistency on the Road
The Avs have been nearly unbeatable at home, but the road has been a different story. Whether it’s sluggish starts or lapses in structure, they haven’t always brought their best when away from Ball Arena. That’s something that’ll need to be cleaned up come playoff time - especially if they want to go deep.
2. Managing the Grind
This team has played a lot of hockey, and the Olympic break is a welcome pause. But with players like Landeskog coming back from injury and others logging heavy minutes, managing fatigue and staying healthy will be critical down the stretch. The margin for error in the postseason is razor-thin - fresh legs matter.
3. Defensive Breakdowns in Transition
For all the talent on the blue line, there have been moments - especially against speedier teams - where the Avs have gotten caught in transition. Giving up odd-man rushes or losing coverage in the neutral zone has led to some costly goals. It hasn’t been a season-long issue, but it’s shown up enough to be a concern.
Looking Ahead
There’s also some buzz around the league about new jerseys debuting in 2026-27, including a reported hometown remix for the Devils. No word yet on whether Colorado will be in the mix for a redesign, but with the Avs’ history and iconic look, any update would be big news in Denver.
For now, though, all eyes are on the ice - and on the Olympics - as the Avalanche continue to chase greatness. They’ve got the roster, the momentum, and the mindset. But as we’ve seen time and again in this league, staying on top takes just as much work as getting there.