Game #39 - Colorado 3, Phoenix 2

A huge win last night was overshadowed by a massive injury, as the teams best player Matt Duchene left early in the first with a real awkward looking injury. Duchene went to finish his hit, and sort of hit a rut in the ice and awkwardly limped off the ice. After the diagnosis, it seems Duchene is out a minimum of a month, which is a terrible loss for a team playing as well as they are right now. With that being said, there is no feeling bad for the team and they responded very well with a 3-2 win. The avs got things started off in the first, as Kevin Porter tipped home the Paul Stastny pass for his 2nd goal in as many games. The coyotes responded several minutes later, as Mikkel Boedker beat Varlamov glove side. However, several minutes later the avs attacked on a 4-2 and returning to the lineup Kyle Quincey fed Stefan Elliot who blew it by Labarbera for a 2-1 lead. The 2nd period saw the avs put serious attack, but no goals and eventually Phoenix tied it off the stick of Boedker again with a very similar goal. In the 3rd period, the avs continued to pressure and a great play by also returning Chuck Kobasew set up Landeskog for the game winner. Semyon Varlamov was very solid all game long, stopping 25 of 27 shots. The avs outshot them 35-27 and won 36 of 57 faceoffs. On forward, I thought that both Kevin Porter and Chuck Kobasew stepped up huge with Porter stepping into Duchene's spot and Kobasew returning from injury, however the best player on the ice was Landeskog. On d, a returning Kyle Quincey boosted Stefan Elliot's play as they were the best pairing. A big 2 points for the avs, but it comes at a huge price in the loss of Duchene.
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. Stefan Elliot - The young d had a great game, and scored a beautiful goal to give the avs the lead. Paired with Kyle Quincey, he was able to jump up into the play more and be as active as he needs to be, as he had 4 shots on goal
2. Semyon Varlamov - While Giguere has been stealing a little of the spotlight recently, Varlamov has played very well his last few games and this game was no exception. He made 25 saves on 27 shots, but most importantly stopped all 15 in the 3rd to preserve the 2 points
1. Gabriel Landeskog - The young forward continues to score big goals in his early career, and this one was a huge goal. Landy set up the first goal, and scored the winner with 4 shots and 3 hits in the game. He continues to evolve as a mature player despite being 19

Play of the Game - Landeskog's winner gets it tonight, great hustle by Kobasew to beat 3 guys and feed Landeskog infront.

Misplay of the Game - Losing Duchene really hurts this club, but they must move on

Game #40 - The avs head on the road for their last game of 2011, where they meet the struggling Anaheim Ducks Saturday on New Years Eve (@8pm).

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #38 - Winnipeg 4, Colorado 1

The score doesn't speak for the flow of the game, but in back-to-back games the avs put all they had at Pavelec and just couldn't beat him. Just like that, the avs 8-game home winning streak and overall 5-game winning streak is snapped. The avs outshot the Jets 33-26, but a few unfortunate bounces led to the Jets 3rd and 4th goals and a comeback wasn't possible. After Evander Kane opened the scoring in the first, the Jets got another early 2nd on the PP. When the avs pushed back, they just looked tired but still mustered chances. Late 3rd a costly turnover led to Kane's 2nd goal, and early 3rd the same leading to the 4th goal. All together, not a horrible game but too many turnovers. J.S. Giguere finally looked regular again, after 4 straight home games, allowing 4 goals on 26 shots. On d, it's time to put Quincey back in the lineup, I know the same d pairs were working the past few games, but one of Elliot (not likely) or Hunwick (likely) needs to sit. On forward, once again I thought it was an even attack just no one could muster any offence. Overall not the best game, but these games happen and a tough one for the avs/
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. David van der Gulik - He has played well on a 4th line with McLeod and Porter, picking up another assist on the lone goal
2. Paul Stastny - His line was good once again, but they couldn't score. He had 5 shots on goal (Duchene 4).
1. Kevin Porter - Scored the lone goal, a nice passing play by the 4th line

Misplay of the Game - Huge costly turnovers leading to 3rd and 4th goals, With O'Brien failing to cover Kane infront for the 3rd and Elliot running into Giguere causing the 4th, both terrible miscues

Play of the Game - Kevin Porter's goal, nice passing play by the 3rd line

Game #39 - The avs look to bounce back (again) at home, meeting the Phoenix Coyotes on Thursday night (@9pm)

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #37 - Colorado 4, Minnesota 2

After a 4-game home winning streak, the avs headed to Minnesota where they hadn't won a road game in over a month. Things changed quickly, and this game was evident that the avs recent success isn't just at home. Once again, Ryan O'Reilly led the charge and he was all over the ice. After several early penalties and a 5-minute game misconduct for Cody Mcleod, the avs found themselves down to 11 forwards and eventually down 1-0 after a goal in the fanning seconds of the 5-minute PP (which besides that goal, stopped 5 other PPs). Heading into the 2nd down a goal, the avs really picked up the pace in the next period like they have so well recently, and got one back on their own PP. O'Reilly dug the puck out of the corner and fed Duchene at the point, who winded up for a slapshot and fed a streaking O'Reilly at the net for a beauty redirection. That goal sparked the avs, and they continued to put pressure on Backstrom. However, 2 minutes after the goal. Erik Johnson pounced up a costly turnover and Clutterbuck capitalized for a 2-1 lead. Things continued back-and-forth until the end of the 2nd, where with a minute left David Van Der Gulik forced a turnover and Landeskog jammed the puck home for a crucial 2-2 tie. In the 3rd, the avs really had own of their best periods of the season. Varlamov was strong in net, but the offense led the charge with goals by Hejda (beauty O'Reilly feed) and Galiardi to seal it. The O'Reilly Hejduk Landeskog line was the best tonight, but I really thought all 11 (without Mcleod) forwards were all going. On d, Hejda and O'Byrne were really solid combining for +5, while both EJ/O'Brien and Hunwick/Elliot also played well. Kyle Quincey has been a healthy scratch the past 3 games, because Sacco doesn't want to mess with his chemistry right now as even Matt Hunwick is playing great. Semyon Varlamov stopped 20 of 22 shots for his first start in 5 games, and really deserved this win. Overall a great win, 5th straight for this team, and they keep rising in the standings everyday.
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. Jan Hejda - After starting the season miserably with Erik Johnson, Hejda has been paired with O'Byrne recently and the two have played very well defensively. The teams #1 shutdown pairing and PK pairing, Hejda scored the crucial game winner in the 3rd while being +2 in almost 19 minutes of work
2. Gabriel Landeskog - The young forward continues to play better and better every game, but he was the key in this victory. He produced a late goal in the 2nd to tie things up, and really get the team going in the 3rd
1. Ryan O'Reilly - Continues to be the best player on this team, O'Reilly is leading in all aspects of the game like a captain would. He scored for the 2nd straight game, assisted on the game winner and had 4 shots in a team-leading 22:21 of icetime. I wouldn't be surprised if he gets an A soon on his sweater

Play of the Game - O'Reilly's goal gets it tonight, beautiful give-and-go by him and Duchene set up the first avs goal

Misplay of the Game - Erik Johnson's terrible turnover gets it tonight

Game #38 - The avs play the 2nd of back-to-back games, heading home to face the Winnipeg Jets on Tuesday night (@9pm).

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche NEws

Game #36 - Colorado 2, Tampa Bay 1 (OT)

After a 3-game road losing streak the avs were sitting at 3 games below 500 and asking many unanswered questions. Fast-forward a week and 4 games later, the avs are now 1 game above 500 and suddenly back in the playoff race after an outstanding 4-game home-stand where they won all 4 games. Despite playing decent this month, Varlamov say Giguere take the starting role at the beginning of this home-stand and now 4 games later he looks like the starter now. Giguere has been outstanding the past 4 games, allowing just 6 goals in that stretch and really giving the avs a chance to win everytime he plays. This game was no different, the avs played extremely solid defensively (the lone goal a weak mistake) and were step-for-step with the Lightning all game long. With such stars as Stamkos, St. Louis, Lecavalier etc, the avs forced them outside and gave Giguere room to find the pucks. In front of Giguere, this team plays different and its a good thing right now, Giguere leads this team both on and off the ice. You can see how passionate he is, smashing his stick after letting in goals and constantly speaking to teammates: exactly what a good, veteran goalie should bring. Overall, not the best offensive game for the avs but a true 4-line attack. This home-stand has really featured the even play of all 4 forward lines, with the top two Duchene-Winnik-Stastny and O'Reilly-Hejduk-Landeskog providing the offensive and solid play. But this game I think the 3rd and 4th lines were the big factor, as not only McClement-Malone-Galiardi were good on the forecheck but McLeod-Porter-Van Der Gulik were effective everytime they stepped on the ice. On D, O'Brien and Johnson continue to lead this team in their recent success, but both O'Byrne-Hejda and Hunwick-Elliot also played solid. The avs dominated in parts of this game, killing 3/3 penalties but also winning 40 of 54 faceoffs. Overall 8 of 8 points won in a 4-game home-stand and the avs how now won a franchise record 8-straight at home. I hope the avs are able to continue this play on the road, because it is a factor still missing since the opening road trip.
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. Ryan O'Reilly - O'Reilly continues to lead with his play at both ends, perhaps one of the biggest surprises this season. Known more as a defensive asset, O'Reilly has emerged as the top scorer as the avs to go along with his stellar defensive play. He had the game tying goal, +1, 5 shots and 11 of 15 faceoffs in just over 23 minutes of icetime and is 1 point ahead of Matt Duchene for the team lead in points at 24
2. J.S Giguere - His 4th straight start, and equally deserves the first star, Giguere was brilliant again allowing just 1 goal on 30 shots. Nothing against Varlamov, but it seems Giguere was suddenly stolen the starting job and 100% deserves it after winning 4 straight games allowing only 6 goals
1. Matt Duchene - Despite Giguere deserving it, Duchene's goal was a huge one for the avs. After a slow start, Duchene has really picked up his play and especially since being paired with Stastny and Winnik has he excelled. His OT goal sent the avs to their 4th straight win, 5th in 6 games and 8th straight at home (a franchise record)

Play of the Game - It wasn't pretty, but Duchene's OT goal gets it tonight. Honourable mention to Giguere's glove save in OT to boost the team's chances at winning

Misplay of the Game - Despite a stellar game, Giguere gets it for the lone goal. Soft shot by Kubina should have been stopped

Game #37 - The avs take a few days off for Christmas, but head on the road to face the suddenly struggling Minnesota Wild on Monday night (@6pm).

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #35 - Colorado 3, St. Louis 2

After tying a franchise record 7th straight home win, the avs are suddenly back in the playoff picture in the west. It took nearly a month, but the team is back at .500 with a 17-17-1 record, and have now won 3 straight on this 4-game home-stand. Tonight was another defensive minded hockey games, full with momentum swings and good goaltending. The avs got off two a fortunate start with Stastny scoring on a tip 4 minutes in. Just over a minute later, Kevin Porter dumped the puck on net and Elliot tried to quickly move it to Kevin Shattenkirk (both former avs) and he fanned on it leaving a puck wide open for McLeod to score his 2nd of the season. After that the game slowed down, and the avs killed off 3 straight PK to end the period. Once again the avs came out strong in the 2nd, with Winnik hitting the post seconds in. After that however, St. Louis picked it up and goals from Backes and former av Chris Stewart tied things up. With around 6 minutes to go, McClement and Malone had a two on one and McClement threw the puck out front off a defender and past Elliot as the net came off. A lengthy review saw the goal count and a 3-2 lead. The avs then played a balanced 3rd period, with Giguere standing on his head, and were able to win another game. J.S Giguere is playing his best hockey in a while, having won 3 straight on this home-stand and not giving up more than 2 goals each game. It isn't the stats that amaze me about him however, he brings a prescence that seems to get this team going. Giggy made 37 saves on 39 shots, including 11 saves when the avs were outshot 11-1 in the 3rd. On offence, I felt that no particular line was the best tonight but the top 3 lines (Duchene Stastny Winnik, O'Reilly Hejduk Landeskog, McClement Galiardi Malone) were all effective in their role. On defence, I thought that all 3 pairings were good, with Johnson-O'Brien and Hejda-O'Byrne logging major minutes. A perfect game for a coach, 3 different goals from 3 different lines and 9 different players with a point (as well as a D man assisting on every goal). Overall, not the prettiest game but its the two points that matter and Coach Sacco has seemingly woken his team up of late as they now sit just 4 points out of the 8th playoff spot.
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. Brad Malone - Making the most of his recent call-up, Malone has played aggressive hockey that has been lacked in players game such as Kobasew, Yip, Porter etc. Not only that, he seems to have found some chemistry with McClement and Galiardi in an effective checking line, and he assisted on the GWG
2. Jay McClement - Scored the GWG against his former club, and had a solid game on the PK and even strength all night
1. J.S Giguere - Starting his 3rd straight game, Giggy walks away with the 1st star for the 3rd time. He has been by far the avs best player on this 3-game winning streak, and has really woken this team up. I don't know if they just play better in front of him, but Giguere has effectively reached his teammates and they are responding well. He made 37 saves on 39 shots


Play of the Game - Giguere's glove save on Alex Pietrangelo gets it, late 3rd period and clutch save for Giggy

Misplay of the Game - Matt Hunwick's weak checking of Berglund leading to the tying goal

Game #36 - The avs look to go 4-0 on this 4-game home-stand, as well as set a new record for their 8th straight home win, as they meet the struggling Tampa Bay Lightning on Friday night (@9pm).

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #34 - Colorado 3. Philadelphia 2 (SO)

Besides the fact that the avs won for a 6th straight game at home, there were a lot of little things to notice how much better the team has played. Behind J.S. Giguere the last 2 games, they held Washington and Philadelphia, 2 of the most offensive teams in the East, to three goals. Not that Varlamov hasn't played well, but Giguere plays with confidence and experience and it shows as the team really looks different with him in net. Giguere was stellar again tonight, stopping 31 of of 33 shots, but he kept the team going all game and stopped the Flyers offence most of the game. Despite two of my favourite players in Giroux and Pronger being out, it was incredible to watch Jaromir Jagr and how good he still is. This game should have ended in regulation, another last minute goal in a play Giguere had no chance. Regardless, the avs won in the shootout (as always) to improve to 6-0 in shootouts, as well as 6 straight games on home ice. The avs started the season so awful at home, but things have quickly changed and this team looks strong at home. On forward, the avs are finally getting a strong 1-2 punch upfront with the checking line doing their job, what a good hockey team always consists of. The O'Reilly Landeskog Hejduk line continues to be a strong line, with Landy scoring his 6th of the season, one that really got the team fired up. After trailing 1-0 late 1st and then tying halfway through the 2nd, the avs continued to play a defensive game . Late 2nd rookie Brad Malone, playing with McClement and Galiardi, threw it off a player then off Galiardi into the net. The checking line worked hard all game, especially TJ Galiardi who has really picked his play up. As well, Stastny Duchene and Winnik continue to cycle extremely well, with several good chances. On D, I can't say enough about Erik Johnson-Shane O'Brien pairing. While Johnson has come on strong since he came back (6 points in 5 games now), Shane O'Brien is playing the best hockey ive seen him play. He is confident defensively and uses his body, but i've never known him as an offensive player and he continues to step into the play and make the right decisions (with a beauty feed to Landeskog for his goal). As well, O'Byrne-Hejda was great in a shutdown role but Elliot-Hunwick has played real good the last 2 games. I continuously (along with many avs fans) got angy at Hunwick's play last year, but he seems more dedicated in getting a chance now, and he is playing his best hockey. It helps pairing with Elliot, who like Hunwick is fast and is a puck-moving defenceman. It is nice to see the avs play as a team, where every line adds somethng and they deserved the two points tonight.
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. Shane O'Brien - Perhaps his best game as an av, he was all over the ice tonight and made an outstanding feed to Landeskog for his goal. Paired with EJ the last few games, O'Brien has played some of his best goal and he was an impact tonight with 1 assist, +1, and 2 shots in just over 23 minutes.
2. Gabriel Landeskog - Was the best foward tonight, he was all over the ice on in every aspect, 5-on-5, PK and PP and played his best complete game. Despite slowing down on scoring, Landeskog has played extremely well in finding a role and has stuck with Ryan O'Reilly all season, and I think the two complement each other extremely well
1. J.S Giguere - Second straight game for Giggy, he was the best av on the ice once again. Giguere was always one of my favourite goalies growing up, and to see him enjoy the veteran role is really helping his young teammates. While Varlamov has been alright, in front of Giggy the team plays more defensively and really feeds off the reliability he brings.

Play of the Game - Easy choice, Landeskog's goal just a beautiful tick-tack-toe from EJ to O'Brien to Landeskog in front, who easily deked out Bryzgalov for the goal

Misplay of the Game - The failure to clear by Stastny led to the Flyers goal, uncharacteristic play by the usual outstanding defensive play of Paul.

Game #35 - The avs continue with the 4 game home-stand riding a 6 game home winning streak, as they face the St. Louis Blues on Wednesday night (@930pm).

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #33 - Colorado 2, Washington 1

A much different storyline than anyone expected, with both Vokoun and Varlamov not in net Giguere and Neuvirth stole the show. With 2 offensive teams, there was tons of chances but both goalies played extremely well; in the end Giguere was just incredible again. I have suported Varlamov, and I know that he wanted to play his old team and prove them wrong, he was hurt and Giguere played a great hockey game. The best part of this game was the fact that both goals came from players who scored their first of the season, with Mcleod's being a complete fluke goal 2 minutes in or Erik Johnson's long awaited first goal just seconds after Washington (Semin) tied it. After Semin's very nice goal to tie it (top shelf Giggy had 0 change), the avs responded the avs cycle led Landeskog to Hejduk who dished it off the boards to Johnson, and his shot got through many bodies and past Neuvirth. From then on, the avs played a tight checking but also offensive game, often taking long shifts cycling in the corner (especially Winnik Duchene and Stastny). In the absence of Kyle Quincey, the resent injury, Matt Hunwick played by far his best game as an av. After a terrible season last year, he was paired with Stefan Elliot tonight and the duo played extremely well. While Mcleod's goal was a fluke, he brought much provided energy in his fight with ex av Matt Hendrics that got the team fired up, and they stayed step for step with one of the most talented teams in the West. J.S Giguere had his best game of the season, making 25 saves on 26 shots including 7 from Alexander Ovechkin. He was calm all night, only beaten once and really calmed the game down all 60 minutes. Stastically, the avs played a great game winning 33 of 51 faceoffs and outshooting the Caps 28-26. Great game in all, and having these next home games are crucial right now with 5 straight home wins.
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. Ryan O'Reilly - Despite having no points tonight O'Reilly gets full credit for the things that don;t make the highlight reel. He played an outstanding defensive game, making several important plays in the 3rd period. He has definitely stepped up and led the charge for the forwards so far, and is really being supported by captain Hejduk and Landeskog
2. Erik Johnson - His first goal of the season was a huge goal, he also had an assist on Mcleod's goal. Overall a great game, one that Coach Sacco has to be thrilled about
1. J.S. Giguere - Johnson deserved it, but Giguere was too good all night long. Seemed to many a simple game for Washington, but Giguere was steady all night and provided a calming netminder that Varlamov hasn;t been yet.

Play of the Game - Erik Johnson's first goal of the season, the game winner just seconds after the Caps tied it.

Game #34 - The avs look for a 6th straight on home ice vs. the injury depleted (and 24/7 bound) Flyers on Monday night (@9pm).

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #32 - San Jose 5, Colorado 4

A few days late, but here is the recap of that game. The avs had some new line combos and for 40 minutes played on of the best games of the season after winning the previous game in Colorado. Through 40 minutes, the line of Duchene Stastny and Winnik had 3 of the 4 goals with O'Reilly scoring the 4th. The avs went dead in the 3rd, allowing goals from Burns (awful Hejdu turnover) Pavelski and Couture to lose it 5-4. Regardless, the avs played great games back to back considering hte injuries (Wilson, Yip, Kobasew,) and I really like the top two lines + Galiardi right now. Landeskog Hejduk and O'Reilly will play the rest of the season together and have chemstry but right now Duchene and Stastny are playing their best and Winnik stepped up with a Gordie Howe Hatrick. Tough loss but can bounce back at home. Varlamov was good through 40, but really couldn't buy a save in the 3rd with 3 goals for 5 (35 shots).
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. Ryan O'Reilly - Had another goal for his 7th of the season, and really continues to be the leader of the forwards. I'm still surprised he hasn't gotten an A cause he is playing some reliable hockey for a 21-year old
2. Daniel Winnik - Playing with Duchene and Stastny, Winnik gets to show that he has some skill to go along with his fast grinding game. He had a goal, assist and fight all in the 2nd period and really provided a solid cycle game all season whoever he plays with.
1. Paul Stastny - After missing the road trip, Stastny has regained chemistry with Dutchy and had a great hockey game. He had two goals, 1 assist in over 20 minutes and looked like his old self; a leader on this team.

Misplay of the Game - Easy choice here, Hejda turnover for the Burns goal that led the comeback. He knows just get it out and made costly error

Play of the Game - Winnik Gordie Howe hatrick gets it tonight, best game of the season for him.

Game #33 - The avs head home for the first of a 4-game home stand (with 4 straight wins) against the Washington Capitals on Saturday night (@9pm).

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avs News

Game #31 - Colorado 4, San Jose 3 (SO)

Coming off a terrible road trip, where the team had 0 energy, the avs headed back home and were aided with the return of Paul Stastny to the lineup. Already without Mueller and Wilson with concussions, Stastny returned after missing 3 games and really sparked an avs team that was dead the last few games. Despite being thoroughly outplayed last time vs. the sharks, the avs actually picked up the pace and ran the show for most of the game. Stefan Elliot got things started with a beautiful coast-to-coast goal at the end of the 1st, a true show of the skill he brings to the table. After the Sharks scored twice and lead 2-1 going into the 3rd, the avs really picked up the pace and played with a lot of energy. Goals from Winnik and then Duchene on the PP got the avs in front, until Marleau tied it up with 22 seconds left on a nifty move/feed from Logan Couture. When OT solved nothing, the avs continued their undefeated shootout record as Gabriel Landeskog scored the winner on his first attempt in his career. After starting the season awful at home, they have really rebounded of late winning 4 straight now at home. Overall, I thought that Semyon Varlamov played really well tonight. He was making saves all night when San Jose picked up the attack, and really didn't have much chance on all of the 3 goals. The main thing I have noticed from him recently is he isn't shaky in net, a problem he had where he was not seeing the puck well and really having a hard time controlling shots, but it seems that hes regained his form making 30 saves on 33 shots and stopping 3 of 4 in the shootout. Despite allowing 3 goals, two on defensive miscues, I thought the avs D played really well in particular Elliot and Johnson. It was nice to see EJ play a solid game after a few shaky ones since his return from injury. Overall, I think that this was a really nice rebound game for the avs, one where a win was needed and the team really picked up the pace.
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. Daniel Winnik - He has really become a steady player for the avs in terms of bringing speed and size, but he really got the team going with his 3rd period game tying goal. He has played tremendous on the PK of late, but I think that he has been on of the most consistent players in terms of creating scoring chances and taking shots on net
2. Stefan Elliot - Another solid game from Elliot as well as another highlight reel goal. He truly is gifted offensively, but also had a strong defensive game as well in probably his best two-way game of his young career
1. Matt Duchene - Dutchy has really picked up his game of late, and seemed to be sparked by the return of Stastny. He was active all night, scoring a beautiful PP goal and creating chances every time he touched the puck. As a big Duchene fan, it is nice to see him finally start to produce on a regular basis as he is expected to.

Play of the Game - Easy choice here, Stefan Elliot's highlight coast-to-coast goal was just awesome.

Misplay of the Game - Shane O'Brien's failure to clear and then bad read on Couture that set up the tying goal late in the 3rd

Game #32 - The avs now head to San Jose for a rematch and 2nd game of the home-and-home series with the Sharks on Thursday night (@1030pm).

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #30 - Edmonton 4, Colorado 1

Another awful game, this is now 3 straight losses after 3 wins. This road trip was terrible, the avs got outscored 13-4 and lost all 3 games. It's time for change, there's nothing else Sacco deserves to prove his job should be gone. The avs looked lifeless all game long, not finishing hits or making plays. Defensively this was a terrible game, several turnovers leading to goals. There's not a lot else to say for a 3rd straight game, and I think that if their not considering a trade then I don't know what to think. Even with Stastny and Wilson out, no one was stepping up for the avs in just a terrible game. The only player that showed up was Varlamov, despite allowing 4 goals he constantly bailed out his team. Change is immiment, I can't see Sacco keeping his job more than a week and thats a good thing.
Avalnche Three Stars:
3. Daniel Winnik - Him and McClement only forwards to show up, assisting on the lone goal
2. Jay McClement - Scored the lone goal
1. Semyon Varlmov - Despite allowing 4 goals, stood on his head all game and really bailed his team out in what should have been a 7-1, 8-1 type of game

Misplay of the Game - Defensive lapses on Edmonton's 1st, 2nd and 4th goals gets it tonight. O'Brien for failing to clear on the first, Winnik for not doing anything about Eager in front and Hejda for pinching with 10 seconds left in a period when it was 3-1, what a terrible terrible play

Game #31 - The avs head for a lengthy wait until their next game (which could mean Sacco fired), and they head home for the first game of a home-and-home with the San Jose Sharks Tuesday night (@9pm).

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #29 - Calgary 3, Colorado 2

Same old story vs. Calgary, only this time the avs let the win slip right away from them. Leading 1-0 going into the 3rd, the avs took a 4-min penalty (2nd of the game) and allowed 2 PP goals, but they rallied when Galiardi tied it at 2. That still wasn't enough to even get the avs a single point, as another late game winner off a terrible read by both defence cost the avs. This game really hurts, the avs are now 0-4 against Calgary and 1-8 vs. their division this year. With a slew of injuries/suspensions, the avs really were outshot badly but maintained a good pace and great play from Giguere. Just a horrible 3rd period, and after two good periods the avs waste another game. What is it going to take for Sacco to learn certain things, he needs to get replaced bottom line. Terrible loss, 2nd in a row on this trip and change is needed.
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. J.S Giguere - Despite allowing 3 goals, he was solid in making 32 saves and really kept the avs in it.
2. Matt Duchene - Beauty goal, his 10th of the season. Him Galiardi and Yip were the best line for the avs tonight
1. T.J Galiardi - Has played well of late, scoring his 4th goal while dishing out 4 hits

Misplay of the Game - Two seperate scenarios cost the avs. First Galiardi's 4 minute high sticking that cost 2 goals and the lead. But big play goes to both Quincey and O'Brien for committing to Iginla and leaving Jokinen wide open for the winner, just an awful read

Play of the Game - Duchene's goal was a beauty snipe

Game #30 - Avalanche head to Edmonton tomorrow night to play the Oilers (@930pm).

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #28 - Vancouver 6, Colorado 0

Nothing much to write about this game besides Sacco needs to be fired. Terrible game, the avs outshoot the Canucks but played awful defensively and go from a 2-0 score to 6-0 in 4 awful minutes in the 3rd. The avs carried momemtum into the 3rd besides being down 2-0, took some penalties but were able to kill them off (including a 5 minute major in the first) but when it got to 4 on 4 the avs let up 2 goals in a minute and 2 goals in the next 3 minutes after that. Injuries played a big part in this game, with Luongo and Booth leaving for Vancouver, Stastny already out for the avs and Wilson left while Porter was kicked out. Overall just a terrible showing, one that deserves to lose Sacco's job. Simply put there is no positives about this game, the avs are terrible against their division and its time to make a change. Going into this game with a 3 game winning streak, the avs just left Semyon Varlamov out to dry and its on Sacco who didn't get his players going from puck drop. Fire Sacco and hire Carlyle before he gets signed by someone else, disgusting game.

No 3 Stars tonight because every single player played equally bad.

Misplay of the Game - 4 goals in 4 minutes including 2 on a 4-on-4, just a terrible 3rd period. The avs have been outscored 9-0 in 2 games against the canucks, and need change now

Game #29 - The avs look to rebound off of their worst game of the season, when they meet Calgary in the first of a back-to-back on Thursday night (@9pm).

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #27 - Colorado 4, Detroit 2

Colorado wrapped up its 8-game home-stand in style tonight, knocking off a team they can hardly ever beat in the Detroit Red Wings. Playing with 11 forwards and 7 d, the avs found themselves shorthanded in the third with Stastny gone to injury, but that still didn't stop them from winning. After falling behind 1-0 in a slow first period, the avs responded very well and dominated the 2nd and played great in the 3rd as well. Ryan O'Reilly got things started in the first minute of the 2nd, as Landeskog stripped Ian White behind the net and found a streaking O'Reilly who buried his 3rd goal in 3 games. Minutes later, Duchene threw the puck on net on the PP and Stastny knocked it home for a 2-1 lead and the first over Detroit in 3 games. In the 3rd, the Wings tied it up off of a Cleary tip, but that didn't get to Colorado. At the end of a PK (which besides the Franzen goal was amazing again tonight), Galiardi stripped Helm and fed Landeskog, who returned it to Gali to fire it in the net for the avs 4th SH goal of the season. After that, the avs calmed things down for the last 10 minutes until O'Reilly iced it with his 2nd of the night in the empty net. Ryan O'Reilly has been on a tear lately, and hes been a serious impact player on this team with 9 points in the last 5 games. With that being said, his line of Landeskog (who was equally as good if not better) and Hejduk were the best line on the ice once again. Matt Duchene also played a great game, while hes been in a little scoring slump recently (no goals in 6 games) he has been playing really well and getting tons of shots (6 again tonight). On defence, the avs saw Erik Johnson return and they dressed 7 d, however Stefan Elliot became the odd man out and really didn't play a lot besides the PP (didn't play in the 3rd). While I really think he deserves to stay, he made some costly turnovers tonight and found himself on the bench, but that is a good learning point for the young defense. Shane O'Brien was the best d on the home-stand, and he was particularly good on the defensive side tonight (also ringing one of the post as well). Semyon Varlamov had another stellar game, his 6th straight start (all allowing 2 or less goals). He has played well in all 3 games against Detroit this season, but he was at his best tonight especially on the PK. Overall a really impressive win for the avs, their third in a row, one that is probably the best complete game of the season.
Avalanche Three Stars:
Honourable Mentions - Haven't done this yet this season, but a few players that didn't crack the top 3 deserve it. Matt Duchene was flying all night, with 1 assist and 6 shots on goal he was creating chances and also playing good defence. T.J Galiardi also worked really hard all game, and it payed off with his goal
3. Semyon Varlamov - Semyon has really started to play his game, winning his 3rd straight game in his 6th straight start. He made 27 saves on 29 shots, and really played solid all night long (both goals not his fault)
2. Gabriel Landeskog - Really tough to choose between Landeskog and O'Reilly, but Landeskog was just phenomenal tonight. He was flying all around the ice, making plays on offensive but I think tonight was his best defensive game. He had 2 assists both off turnovers, and is really playing great hockey with Hejduk and O'Reilly
1. Ryan O'Reilly - There are so many good things I have to say about O'Reilly, and he keeps playing just unreal lately. After 3 and 2 point games, he scored another 2 goals and now leads the team with 21 points (6 goals 15 assists). He leads at all parts of the ice, a true "200 foot" hockey player that every coach loves to have. Since being put with Landeskog and Hejduk, the line has 6 goals and 7 assists for 13 points in 3 games. I love everything that this line brings to the table, and they are really carrying this team right now in the midst of a 3 game winning streak. Give this guy the assistant captain already!

Play of the Game - Galiardi's SH goal gets it tonight, as he stripped Helm and had a beauty give and go with Landeskog before he buried it with the slapshot. Hard work tonight pays of for Gali

Game #27 - After finishing the home-stand 5-3, the avs take a 3-game winning streak to Vancouver in the first of a 3-game divisional road trip on Tuesday night (@10pm).

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #26 - Colorado 3, St. Louis 2 (SO)

In a tight game with the streaking St. Louis Blues, the avs relied heavily on the line of O'Reilly Hejduk and Landeskog and man did they perform tonight (in particular O'Reilly). Despite facing 1-0 and 2-1 defecits, this line carried the avs and got them back into the game both times with goals from Hejduk and O'Reilly. In overtime, the avs were all over St. Louis and thought they had the winning goal off Ryan O'Byrne's stick before video review called it back (unbelievable save by Halak). O'Reilly flew into the zone and faked out the defence with a nifty move, and O'Byrne took the rebound and back-handed it on goal where it went off Halak's stick and up and over. It looked like (and was called) a goal, but upon review Halak got the glove back just in time in one of the best saves of the year. However, in the shootout the avs were 3-0 this season and continued that trend, only this time it was O'Reilly delivering with the shootout winning goal. Tonight was the first game back in Colorado for Chris Stewart and Kevin Shattenkirk, and both played pretty well with Shattenkirk scoring and Stewart setting up Berglund's goal. With EJ out of the lineup, the only other piece of that trade playing against his former team was McClement and he played solid as well. The avs finally have back-to-back wins (their first since the 5-game road winning streak to open the season), and a big reason of that was Semyon Varlamov. After being benched at the beginning of the home-stand, Varlamov has really picked up his game and allowed 2 or less goals in 5-straight starts. He was stellar tonight, stopping 35 of 37 shots and all 3 in the shootout. Statistically this was a pretty even game, Blues outshot the avs 37-35 and won 27 of 49 faceoffs, but it was the avs who walked away with 2 points. On defence, I really felt that Ryan O'Byrne and Jan Hejda was the best pairing tonight, both who have had tough games recently but played really strong tonight. Despite being help pointless, Stefan Elliot had another strong game playing over 22 minutes and having several good chances. On forward, Coach Sacco finally seems to have consistent lines (atleast the top 2). Once again, O'Reilly Landeskog Hejduk were just phenomenal, best line on the ice for either team. I have talked a lot in the past about what Landeskog and Hejduk bring to the table (especially in terms of the cycle game) but Ryan O'Reilly deserves full credit for this game. He quietly has passed Duchene for the team leader in points after a 3-point game Wedesday and 2 points tonight, but he is leading in all places and in my opinion deserves an assistant captain. With the same lines as last game, Stastny Duchene and Jones were good again tonight, putting 12 shots on net (Duchene 6) and creating several good scoring chances. The other two lines of Winnik McClement Kobasew and Galiardi Yip and Porter were good, as back-to-back wins finally has Sacco keeping his lines together. The avs finally surrendered a PP goal, their first in 5 games as the PK has been phenomenal on the home-stand. Overall a great game and great performance by the avs.
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. Milan Hejduk - His line was the best on the ice tonight, and Hejduk is thriving playing with Landeskog and O'Reilly. He was a +2, with 1 goal and 6 shots on net as the avs forward has really played strong since being named captain (and on this line)
2. Semyon Varlamov - If it weren't for O'Reilly (I said this last game as well), Varlamov would be walking away with the first star. With that being said, he played very well once again tonight stopping 35 of 37 shots and really calming the storm in OT and the shootout. After playing poorly recently, and being benched, he has now started 5 straight and allowed 2 or less goals in each game
1. Ryan O'Reilly - Seems that putting Hejduk on his wing has really affected O'Reilly, as for the 2nd straight game he was the best av on the ice by far. A player known for his defensive side, he has really started playing amazing offensively and now leads the team with 19 points (4 goals and 15 assists) and 7 in his last 4 games. While I felt he has played amazing this year, I always have seen him as a mature player despite being 20, and he is really leading this young avs team of late (especially the last two games with Hejduk and Landeskog). This line will definitely be kept together, but I think that it is time O'Reilly wears an A as he deserves it more than anyone

Play of the Game - Both goals get it tonight, very similar plays as the O'Reilly Hejduk Landeskog line fought hard to keep the puck in and produced both avs goal. O'Reilly's shootout goal was equally nice and deserving as well

Misplay of the Game - The avs finally allowed a PP goal, their first since Marleau's empty netter 5 games ago. It came off the stick of former av Kevin Shattenkirk, but i felt their were no serious misplays tonight so it was good to note how strong the avs PK has been on the home-stand

Game #27 - The avs wrap up the 8-game home-stand (4-3 currently), and look to end it on a positive note vs. the rival Detroit Red Wings on Sunday (@8pm)

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #25 - Colorado 6, New Jersey 1

This was exactly the game the avs needed to get out of their recent funk, and this really reminded me of the 7-1 game vs. the Sens both on the goals aspect and the overall team effort. From puck drop tonight the avs were the better team, and really played exceptionally well on both ends of the ice outshooting them 25-19 and winning 30 of 47 faceoffs. I can't say enough good things about Stefan Elliot, you'd think he would take some time to get used to the NHL but the kid has been just phenomenal scoring again tonight (on a beauty wrister past Brodeur) for 3 points in 3 games. One thing is for certain: Elliot is here to stay. The avs waived Joakim Lindstrom today, so even when EJ is back Elliot will no doubt stay (leading to Hejda or O'Byrne being scratched. The avs tried out some new line combos tonight, and I really liked them from the start. O'Reilly Landeskog and Hejduk was a great line all night, as well as I really liked the pace Duchene Stastny and Jones were playing. Throw in Galiardi Porter and Yip (back in the lineup) and this line was forechecking all game long with Gali's goal, as well as McClement Winnik and Kobasew who played well. I feel that Porter and Galiardi have really found their games recently, both skating well and hustling. On the PK, the pairing of McClement and Winnik has been phenomenal, not only because McClement scored SH but they are hustling and really have limited chances the whole home-stand. The one consistent bright spot for the avs on this home-stand has been the PK, something that was horrible all month long. It is good to end this terrible month on a good note, hopefully one that will continue on into December. Once again, Varlamov played really well in his 4th straight start, stopping 18 of 19 shots. Goals in order tonight were Hejduk, Galiardi, Hejda, O'Reilly, McClement and Elliot. Overall a great team effort, both on offence and defence.
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. Milan Hejduk - Playing on a new line, Hejduk really found his game tonight with the opening goal and an assist. Playing with Landeskog and O'Reilly, he really played solid all night and I think this line will stay for the time being
2. Stefan Elliot - If it weren't for Ryan O'Reilly, he would've been the 1st star for the 3rd straight game. There are so many good things I have to say about this kid, but the simple fact is he is making a serious impact on this team. He is playing extremely well on defence, but hes so smart with and without the puck offensively and it shows with his 3 points (2 goals and 1 assist) in 3 games. Elliot is for real, and has cemented his spot on this roster - his goal tonight was an absolute rocket from the point
1. Ryan O'Reilly - O'Reilly is just a terrific hockey player, and hes really starting to find his offensive side this season. He has a special connection with Landeskog, and having Hejduk on that line tonight really opened things up for him. He had a goal and 2 assists to give him 3 goals and 14 assists on the season

Play of the Game - I have two tonight, first being O'Reilly's goal as both him and Hejduk made great hits behind the net, Hejduk (of all people) hit the defender and the puck game out to O'Reilly for the goal. The other one was Stefan Elliot's goal, what a shot past one of the best goalies of all time

Misplay of the Game - The lone big mistake for the avs was Shane O'Brien's turnover on the Devils goal, just slow moving the puck behind his own net

Game #26 - Avs look to start fresh in the month of December, with game #7 of 8 on the home-stand Friday night vs. the visiting St. Louis Blues (@9pm).

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #24 - Dallas 3, Colorado 1

Same old story for the avs, they put tons of shots but can't beat a goalie (backup goalie too) until late 3rd but it isn't enough. With Boudreau and Maurice getting fired this morning, I think its time the avs let go of Sacco and snag up Boudreau before someone else does. I personally am a huge fan of Boudreau's coaching style, and he would be perfect for this young avs team. With that being said, it seems Greg Sherman is too stubborn and set on keeping Sacco, who just refuses to change up his gameplan. Nothing has been working for the avs, I don't get why they don't trade for a top 6 forward before their whole season is done. Simply put, there isn't even alot to say about this game the avs didn't play well enough and lost again at home. If they can't beat backup goalies (such as Raycroft, Dubnyk, Schneider etc) how do they expect to beat top goalies, its just so frustrating as an avs fan to watch these games and see such poor effort on the offensive side. The lone bright spot (besides his turnover at the end) was Stefan Elliot who picked up another point in his 2nd career game. I also thought that Semyon Varlamov has responded since his benching, and he played good tonight stopping 32 of 34 shots. Other than that, this team looks completely flat out there and is starting to get really hard to watch. Either pick up a top-six forward (what trading Chris Stewart really hurts) or fire Sacco (for Boudreau) or both, but the avs need a pick-me-up badly or their season is done.
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. Kevin Porter - Actually had a strong game for once, Porter's line of him Jones and McClement was the best line out there as Porter scored the lone goal.
2. Semyon Varlamov - Made 32 saves on 34 shots and was good despite losing the game
1. Stefan Elliot - Played another solid game, picking up an assist in 19 minutes of work

Misplay of the Game - O'Brien losing the puck at the blueline and Hejda not covering up, leading to Ryder's breakaway goal and the game winner. Just terrible play all around

Game #25 - Avs continue with game #6 of the home-stand and last game in November (awful month) Wednesday night vs. the New Jersey Devils (@930pm)

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #23 - Colorado 5, Edmonton 2

After an even first two periods, the avs still found themselves down 2-1 but that didn't stop them from coming back tonight. You really saw the urgency in the avs play in the 3rd, players were hustling (Jones to beat the icing leading to the 4th goal) and the defence chipped in huge with 3 3rd period goals (O'Brien's first as an av, Hejda and Elliot's first NHL goal) to lead the avs to a 5-2 victory. After Taylor Hall was knocked out of the game in the first period, the Oilers top two lines really didn't muster and offence as Tom Renney was trying to shuffle it around in order to replace Hall. The avs had a 4-line attack tonight, all 4 lines were going and I felt that the defence (Elliot and O'Brien in particular) were great tonight. Semyon Varlamov played in back-to-back games and finally picked up a win, his first in 8 starts, as he saved 31 of 33 shots and really played well all game long. With the absence of Erik Johnson, Stefan Elliot finally got the call and didn't disappoint in his first NHL game. He played well all night, was calm and collected with the puck, but most importantly scored his first NHL goal at a crucial point in the 3rd period and ended up being the game winner. It is definitely going to create some problems once EJ returns, because there is no reason Elliot should be sent down (O'Byrne/Hejda likely scrated as O'Brien Wilson Quincey have been solid all season). Sacco reunited two of his (and my) favourite lines tonight with Stastny Duchene Hejduk and O'Reilly Landeskog Winnik, and it really seemed to spark O'Reilly and Landeskog who both played great (O'Reilly in particular). O'Reilly is the leader on the forward group, and I believe he deserves the A more than anyone else on the team. Simply put, the avs needed a win tonight and really came alive in the 3rd to make that possible. Goals (in order) were McClement, O'Brien, Elliot, Hejda and Stastny (empty net). A huge (must-win) game for the avs, hopefully one that they should be able to build on to continue this home-stand.
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. Shane O'Brien - When the avs need a spark, it always seems to be O'Brien who steps up as the emotional leader on this team. Not the most talented guy, but he plays with such passion and really gives it his all, and he came up huge tonight scoring the tying goal that really got the avs going. He finished the game with 1 goal and 4 shots in just over 20 minutes of work, and has really been the best avs d on this homestand
2. Ryan O'Reilly - Talking about team leaders, O'Reilly is just a great hockey player with tremendous sense for the puck on both ends. He was making defensive plays all night long, really seemed to find his game with Landeskog back on his line, but came up clutch on offense in the 3rd. He had a great feed to O'Brien for the tying goal, and won the draw cleanly on the Elliot goal for 2 assists, +1, 3 shots in just under 20 minutes of work
1. Stefan Elliot - With Erik Johnson sitting, the rookie playing in his first game came up absolutely clutch at the right time. He played very solid all night, but played outstanding in the 3rd period scoring the winning goal. He had 1 goal, 2 shots, and +1 in just under 20 minutes of work, and hopefully looks to cement his place on this roster after a phenomenal first game

Misplay of the Game - Shane O'Brien gets it tonight (despite a stellar game) for turning the puck over at the blueline then running into Varlamov on the oilers first goal

Play of the Game - Easy choice here, Stefan Elliot scoring his first NHL goal in his first game was a great sight to see for all avs fans. David Jones a close second for his great hustle leading to Hejda's goal

Game #24 - The avs play the 5th of 8 games on the home-stand with a rematch against the visting Dallas Stars Monday night (@9pm).

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #22 - Vancouver 3, Colorado 0

After starting the home-stand with a 3-0 win, the avs have mustered 1 goal in 2 games and have really just played awful. With Johnson out with a groin injury, the avs d really weren't active in any way even though his replacement Matt Hunwick actually played good for once. I really dislike playing Lindstrom with Duchene, he stands still and makes it harder for Duchene to make plays, Sacco needs to get Hejduk back with him and Landeskog. It's time for a change, Sacco needs to go or they need to bring in a top 6 forward: I have been saying it for time but this game really pissed me off and Sacco needs to be replaced. He has no idea how to get his team going, they come out flat-footed and fall down atleast 2 goals before the 3rd every game. Another huge mistake is the avs PP, after starting so strong they looked awful tonight (mind you EJ wasn't playing). They need to stop dumping and chasing because they are killing too much PP time, they gotta take a book from Detroit and learn how to properly carry the puck into the zone. The only positive so far has been the PK, only allowing 1 goal (empty net in San Jose) so far on the road trip. There is nothing more to say, these games are starting to get hard to watch as an avs fan and change is needed right now.
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. Matt Hunwick - Getting a chance to fill in for the injured Johnson, Hunwick actually played decently well with 3 hits in just over 17 minutes of work
2. Milan Hejduk - Had 4 shots on net, and was the avs best forward in a bad game
1. Semyon Varlamov - Despite yet another loss, Varlamov was pretty solid stopping 26 of 28 shots

Misplay of the Game - Goes to the avs forwards for not covering up for Kyle Quincey on the 2nd goal, he gets a shot on net and no one covers up as the play goes the other way for a 2 on 1 and Burrows scores

Game #23 - The avs look to get back on track with game #4 of the home-stand, Saturday night vs. the young and talented Edmonton Oilers (@7pm).

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

The Return of Crosby

While I mainly write about Avalanche news and info, I have to comment on the return of Sidney Crosby. The guy is just incredible, almost non-human, he gets out on that ice after 10+ months of not playing and plays as if he never got hurt. In total, Sid the Kid racked up 2 goals, 2 assists, +3, 8 shots, 14 of 21 faceoffs and the game winning goal in just under 16 minutes of work in his first game of the season. Sid is the best player on the planet, no question about it, he just loves the game and plays at a level that is matched by no one in the league. Everytime he took the ice tonight, the Pens faithful exploded with cheers and Crosby didn't let them down. With Crosby healthy, this team is just scary good especially down the middle with Malkin and Jordan Staal. Throw in their talented D (Letang, Orpik etc) and Marc-Andre Fleury (one of the best goalies in the league), and there is no reason this team doesn't go far (if not to the cup) this season. Simply put, Crosby being back is the best thing for the NHL and its fans: every single hockey fan is simply amazed at how good he is. Not only that, but he is by far the most respected player in the league and everyone from Bettman to coaches to players all want and are thrilled to have him back. To conclude, I (along with everyone) couldn't be happier to have #87 back, and he certainly didn't let anyone down tonight.

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #21 - San Jose 4, Colorado 1

The avs played a hard-fought game, but really couldn't beat Thomas Greiss and fell to the powerful San Jose Sharks 4-1. The avs played well, heavily outshot San Jose 37-17 but took too many penalties (6 to San Jose's 1) and lost too many faceoffs (lost 33 of 54). Simple mistakes cost the avs this game, after jumping to an early 1-0 lead they were unable to clear the puck out of their zone several times leading to the Sharks 2nd and 3rd goals. The big guns were moving for the Sharks tonight, Marleau with the hatrick, Pavelski 1 goal and Big Joe Thornton with 3 assists really played phenomenal. For the avs, the line of Duchene Hejduk and Landeskog continued to produce several good scoring chances, as well as the lone goal. J.S Giguere wasn't tested much, but really didn't make the saves when he needed to and after two solid games tonight he was mediocre (leading to Varlamov most likely starting next game). The avalanche have learned how to start games well, but continue to collapse in their own zone and have problems getting the puck out and it cost them big time tonight. The avs need to start figuring out how to play in their own zone, because they are getting outmatched by bigger/faster teams and find themselves stuck in their own zone without being able to clear. Tough game considering they had so many chances, but a loss is a loss and this one was bad.
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. Ryan Wilson - Was the best defenceman tonight, he had 1 assist on a beautiful give and go with Duchene. He played almost 21 minutes, and had 4 shots on goal
2. Gabriel Landeskog - So far on his new line, he has played really well and is getting numerous chances. Gabriel had an assist on the Duchene goal, and registered 4 shots and 4 hits
1. Matt Duchene - Once again, Duchene was the best av on the ice scoring his 9th goal of the season and really creating chances every shift. After a really slow start, he has really come along and started to play as everyone expected him to

Misplay of the Game - Failing to clear the puck on both the Sharks 2nd and 3rd goals, as sloppy defensive plays cost the avs

Play of the Game - Duchene's goal gets it tonight, nice give and go with Wilson

Game #22 - The avs look to get back on track, with their 3rd game of the 8-game home-stand Wednesday night vs. the Vancouver Canucks (@930 pm).

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #20 - Colorado 3, Dallas 0

The avs finally got the home performance they've been seeking this whole season, playing a very good complete team game en route to a 3-0 shutout of the visiting Dallas Stars. After a 13-goal game last matchup with the Stars, the avs were much (much) better defensively tonight and really played well in front of J.S Giguere. The past two games, the team has played much better in front of Jiggy and it's certainly going to create some goalie controversy after two straight brilliant games from him, with Varly struggling the way he has recently. With that being said, the avs started their 8-game homestand with a high note and really outplayed the Stars in every aspect of the game outshooting them 44 to 24 while winning 34 of 55 faceoffs. Giguere had 24 saves for his first shutout as an av, and the team also solved its recent PP issues scoring 2 goals on 5 chances. Tonight was the first time the OWL (O'Reilly, Winnik, Landeskog) line was broken up and it really benefitted the young Landeskog to play with Dutchy and Hejduk. On the first line, he was active and involved, as the line poured on 14 shots together (Landeskog 6) and really showed skill at both ends of the ice. This left David Jones to replace Landeskog on that line, and they played a solid game as well. The other two lines were Stastny-Porter-Yip, I felt that Brandon Yip has been playing well in only his 2nd game since returning from his preseason injury, and Kobasew-McClement-Galiardi which scored the first (and game winning) goal off a Kobasew deflection. On D, I felt that both the Wilson-Johnson and O'Brien-Quincey pairings were good, once again O'Brien was the best one out there. His solid play has seen his icetime increase (20 and a half minutes tonight) as well as time on the 2nd avs PP unit where he picked up an assist. The goals tonight were scored by Kobasew (deflection), Stastny (PP-rebound) and Duchene (PP-empty net). Overall, it was nice to see this team play solid at home, and in general get a win that has been rare this month. I'm not planning the parade, but it was certainly a great showing from a team that needed a W.
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. Gabriel Landeskog - The young forward finally got his shot with the big boys, and certainly didn't let his coach down. He fired 6 shots on goal, 2 hits and had an assist on the Stastny goal after firing the puck on net. I thought he played exceptional tonight, despite not being with his normal linemates
2. Paul Stastny - Despite being moved off the first line, Stastny had a very solid game and seemed to jump-start both Brandon Yip and Kevin Porter's games. He picked up a PP goal, his 6th of the season
1. J.S Giguere - He watched his team heavily out shoot the opponent again, but was equally effective (if not better) then he was last night in Minnesota. He stopped all 24 shots for his first shutout of the season and first in an avs uniform

Play of the Game: After playing poorly and being benched recently, Chuck Kobasew responded tonight with a beautiful deflection goal. Kobasew gets it tonight, but Giguere a close-second for his overall play in a 3-0 shutout.

Game #21 - The avs look to continue their 8-game home-stand strong, as the Sharks are in town Sunday night (@8pm).

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #19 - Minnesota 1, Colorado 0

For 55 minutes the game was 0-0 in a very tight-checking game, 1 missed call and it cost the avs atleast a point. This is another game where the refs screwed them with a non-call, similar to the Calgary game when they got away with a blatant slash and scored the winning goal. Not much else to say about this game, the avs outplayed the wild but again couldn't get any offense and scored 0 goals on Backstrom. I don't know what this team has to do to win a game, but Sacco clearly isn't cutting it and needs to be replaced asap. Other than that, they need a top-6 forward or else there going to keep losing games. Besides the lucky 1 goal, the OWL line did a great job suffocating the Wild's top line. I thought that Shane O'Brien had another exceptionally strong game on the blue line. This was a slow and boring game, with not many chances and the avs just got unlucky. Can't do anything about it, but terrible no-call on the Clutterbuck high-stick and the wild capitalized. J.S. Giguere was solid in stopping 17 of 18 shots, and the 1 goal not his fault. The avs outshot them 27-18, and were outplayed in the faceoff dot 26 to 24. Brandon Yip made his season debut, as finally Porter/Kobasew were benched. Another tough loss, in a brutal month for the avs, and these games are starting to get hard to watch without thinking a trade or firing should take place.
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. Matt Duchene - Was the best forward on the ice, and his line was the only effective one tonight despite not scoring. Duchene had a nice setup for Hejduk who rang it off the post late in the 3rd
2. Erik Johnson - Was strong in shutting down the top line, and fortunate bounce on the goal led him to being -1. However he had 4 shots, was active and played almost 23 minutes
1. Shane O'Brien - For the 2nd straight game, he was the best D on the ice for the avs. He continues to play well this season, playing over 20 minutes tonight

Misplay of the Game: Easy choice once again, terrible no call on Clutterbuck leads to only goal of the game. Tough break for the avs who drop to 1-6-1 in the month of November

Game #20 - The avs start the first game of a 8-game home-stand vs. the Dallas Stars tomorrow night (@9pm).

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #18 - Pittsburgh 6, Colorado 3

Not much to say about this game, the avs got the start they finally needed going up 3-1 in a great first period. After that, they hit the snooze button and handed the game over to the Pens with 5 straight goals including a 4-goal 3rd. Simply put, the avs got outplayed by a better team as great players such as Malkin (beauty), Letang and Neal all scored for Pittsburgh. I thought that through 2 periods, the avs played great defence, really limiting the chances, but really just completely collapsed in the 3rd. Another tough outing for Varlamov, and its really time to give Giguere his chance in net as he is 3-1 and Varlamov is 5-8-1. After starting the season extremely well, Semyon has played sub-par and really hasn't looked comfortable since the early road trip. The lone bright spot for the avs was the re-uniting of top line Heduk Duchene and Stastny, as they produced two goals including a ridiculous move by Duchene. The avs desperately need Mueller back, because they are lacking a 3rd and 4th line punch after the first line and OWL line, except for David Jones who is playing well. I think it is time to pull the trigger on a trade for a third line LW/C to play with Jones and Galiardi and really make a solid 3rd line. Tonight was also the first game with Hejduk as captain, and he played well with 1 assist and also ringing one off the crossbar that would've put them up 4-2. Tough game to watch, as the avs had it through two periods and just gave up in the 3rd, opposite of what they have been doing recently.
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. Erik Johnson - Had 1 assist in just over 22 minutes of work, but most importantly kept Geno Malkin in check most of the night (was off the ice for Malkin's beauty goal)
2. Milan Hejduk - In his first game as captain, he was reunited with Duchene and Stastny and really was the only effective line out there (the first time the OWL line was not the best on the ice in a while). Him and Duchene seemed to be the only ones skating out there by the end of the game
1. Matt Duchene - After a slow start, Duchene has really picked up the pace and looks very comfortable on the wing. He scored an absolute beauty tonight for his team leading 7th goal (tied with Hejduk and Jones) and 14th point.

Misplay of the Game: Ryan O'Byrne gets it tonight, he was just awful and knocked Varlamov out of place for the Pens 2nd goal that really started the momentum shift. He was also -2 with 3 penalties

Play of the Game: Easy choice here, Duchene's goal with a simply nasty toe drag through his legs. Surely will be a tsn highlight of the night and top goal of the year candidate so far

Game #19 - The avs look to escape the November funk, as they head to Minnesota for a divisional game with the Wild on Thursday night (@8pm).

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Milan Hejduk 3rd Captain in Franchise History

I'm not sure what other people think, but I strictly believe in teams having a captain and am really against coaches that go without one during the season. Every team needs a captain, someone who leads by example on and off the ice, and that is something that was lacked this year. Today, Coach Sacco finally decided on his captain, selecting RW Milan Hejduk as the 3rd captain in franchise history. By all means, this is the right choice as Hejduk is not only the oldest on the team but also the most veteran in a young group of forwards. While players like Johnson, Stastny and even O'Reilly/Duchene all deserved the captain, Hejduk was the player that I (along with many other people) thought deserved it the most, and Sacco definitely made the right choice. I have had quite some time watching Hejduk, hes been here since his rookie year in '99 and was a key member of the 2001 Stanley Cup team. Hejduk will certainly have a lot of expectations and big shoes to fill after previous captains Joe Sakic and Adam Foote, both legends in Denver. While Foote was only captain for 2 years, Sakic was the longtime captain of the avs and my favourite player and he was a leader in every respect. Joe possessed leadership qualities that were amongst the best of all time (up there with Yzerman, Messier, Gretzky etc), and lead just as much on the ice (with his amazing play) as he did off it. Hejduk is a much different player then Joe, but that doesn't mean he isn't deserving of this job, and as the oldest guy on the team he is the logical choice. Hopefully this decision will pay dividends immediately, as the avs are in need of a Captain to help the team when they need leadership (as they are a very young team). Overall, I really like this decision for two reasons: Hejduk was the right man for the job, and we finally have a captain because every team needs one.

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #17 - Calgary 4, Colorado 3

Once again the avs lackluster start provided too much of a gap to get back into the game, but man oh man was that 3rd period like a playoff game. It had a hell of a pace, back and forth action and a wild flurry where the avs scored twice and had numerous chances on a 6-on-4 in the last 2 minutes including a deflection just wide at the buzzer. There is a simple message from this game: Coach Sacco needs to go, because he isn't doing his job getting his team started and it is costing them games. He continuously changed the avs lines, and then finally realized in the 3rd that Duchene needs to be up with Hejduk and Stastny and it paid off. If Sacco isn't going to be fired, the avs need to make a move and pickup another centre/winger so that they can have 3 solid lines of attack. Despite the loss, the OWL line was just incredible tonight and while O'Reilly and Landeskog were great, Daniel Winnik was just oustanding. He was all over the ice, throwing his weight around and fired 7 shots on goal in probably his best game in an av uniform. The same can be said on d about Shane O'Brien, he really has started to develop into an emotional leader for this team. When they are down, he is jumping into the play and controlling the puck as he flew down the whole ice and created the 3rd avs goal. However, the game shouldn't have even been 4-0 because the refs missed a clear slash by Stempniak before scoring his goal, as he blatantly slashed Hejda's stick out before coming out and scoring. Semyon Varlamov really had a rough first period, allowing 3 goals on 7 shots, but was better the rest of the way through. However, it is time to give Giguere a chance to play as Varlamov isn't getting the job done like he was early on. Despite losing, the avs continued a trend dominating both faceoffs (34 of 57) and shots (39 to Flames 20). The biggest gap in this team is starting slow, as they continue to start slow and not play well through 40 minutes. This is what happens when a team has no captain, they need a leader on the ice and its simply time to name one. If Johnson or Hejduk/Stastny aren't going to be named captain, in my opinion Ryan O'Reilly deserves it as he is simply leading this team right now despite him being 20 years old. These games are really starting to piss off avs fans until the 3rd, and its time to pull the trigger on a trade or coaching change. Hejduk, Jones and Duchene all scored for the avs in a great hockey game despite the slow start.
Avalanche Three Stars:
3.Daniel Winnik - Daniel had his best game in an avs uniform, with 3 hits and firing 7 shots on goal. Despite not getting a point, he was all over the ice tonight and his line of him Landeskog and O'Reilly was by far the best out there
2. Shane O'Brien - The past two games, the avs have been down 3-0 and 4-0 respectively and it was O'Brien (and partner Quincey) who voiced their displeasure and really caried the avs. O'Brien was spectacular tonight, playing his best game as an av picking up an assist and +2 in just under 20 minutes of hard work
1. Milan Hejduk - Milan continues his hot start, scoring his 7th on the season and picking up an assist on Duchene's goal. He really picked up his play when Dutchy joined his line, and this line NEEDS to stay together in order to make the avs a better team as through 2 periods Sacco shifted his lines to much and left Duchene out to dry

Misplay of the Game - Awful no-call by the ref on the 4th Flames goal, cost the avs the game after the no call on a blatant slash

Play of the Game - Goes to Shane O'Brien for his end-to-end rush leading to the avs 3rd goal

Game #18 - Sitting at 500 (8-8-1), the avs head on a two-game road trip starting with the Penguins in Pittsburgh on Tuesday (@730pm) in which could be the first game that Sidney Crosby plays in.

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #16 - Colorado 4, New York 3 (OT)

A must-win game for the avs sure didn't look like it through two periods, as they peppered Montoya but couldn't beat him and quickly found themselves down 3-0 early in the 2nd period. At this point, it was J.S. Giguere's time to shine as he refused to allow another goal and made some key saves to keep the avs in range, and a 5-on-3 advantage in the dying minutes of the 2nd saw the avs finally score off the stick of Paul Stastny. From that point on, the avs really showed the hunger to win, something that wasn't there through 40 minutes but certainly was in the 3rd. Goals from Hejduk and Hejda got this game tied, and again Giguere made several key saves including a breakaway and point-blank shot at the buzzer, both off the stick of the red-hot Michael Grabner to force OT. The avs killed off a crucial powerplay in the last 2 minutes of the 3rd, and then got their own in OT and made no mistake as Kyle Quincey's point shot made it through traffic to seal the come-from-behind win for the avs. In a game that could have gone so sour for the avs, Giguere stood there and was the backbone of this team, really giving them a chance to get back into it. Despite the win, the avs are getting into a horrible habit of being slow through 2 and then pushing hard in the 3rd, but tonight they were able to get back into the game. Through 2, the avs had chances but couldn't score, but after Stastny's goal the top 3 lines (Lindstrom Stastny Hejduk, OWL line and Duchene Galiardi Jones) really pushed the Islanders and all played outstanding the rest of the way through. On D, I felt that Shane O'Brien and Kyle Quincey were outstanding tonight as O'Brien really controls the play out there but Quincey has become a force for the avs, pitching in another 2 assists to put him tops the avs d at 12 points. I also felt the pairing of Johnson and Wilson really woke up in the 3rd, as Johnson was solid with the puck but Wilson was standing out delivering several big hits. Overall, not the prettiest game, but the avs certainly are happy to walk away with 2 points after being down 3-0 for most of the game. The avs also finally got another home win, as well as ended the November losing streak at 4 games. Regardless of the 2 points, I really feel that its time to make some moves and the first step is either making a trade or bringing in a new coach because simply put it isn't working. The avs winning this game saves Sacco's job for another night, but he is certainly very close to being replaced.
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. Kyle Quincey - I can say a lot about Johnson, Wilson and O'Brien (and even Hejda for his first goal as an av) on how they played tonight, but Quincey simply was the best d out there. After 1 point and a whole season missed last year, he has responded very well with 12 points so far and really playing exceptional on the powerplay. He had 2 PP points (1g, 1a), including the game winner, and has been a big part of the avs early success on the PP as the leagues #1 unit
2. Milan Hejduk - Hejduk was the best avs forward all game long, picking up a goal and an assist. He is so good with the puck, and despite being the oldest av on the team he has not lost a step in his game. He is a true sniper in every way, and whether they have him with Stastny or Duchene, he makes both of them better
1. J.S Giguere - Despite allowing 3 goals, Giguere played very well infront of a completely flat avs team. Regardless, he made saves at crucial times when the game could have gotten out of hand and enabled the avs to fight their way back. He made a brilliant save on Grabner at the end of the 3rd to give them a chance in OT, and it paid off.

Misplay of the Game: Kevin Porter taking draws on the PK, he was beaten cleanly in the 1st as the Islanders scored 5 seconds after. The avs need to make some moves to get another winger or 2 in the system, as players like Porter shouldn't be in the lineup

Play of the Game: Easy choice, Giguere's great save on Grabner at the buzzer takes the cake tonight

Game #17 - The avs have the Calgary Flames in town next, in a must-win divisional game on Saturday night (@10pm).

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #15 - Detroit 5, Colorado 2

The losing streak continues, as this team has simply been invisible through 4 games in November picking up a measly 1 point out of 8. This one was no different from the rest, except that the Red Wings just simply outplayed them in every way. Johan Franzen burns the avs every single time he plays them, and scored another hat trick against them. I didn't understand in anyway why Sacco went with 7 d tonight, not only did it screw up chemistry but it really messed up the forwards having to continuously shift players around. Regardless of the struggles, the avs d pairings have been solid and putting in the small Matt Hunwick was a huge weakness for them as he simply just shouldn't be playing. The only positives of this game was the play of young guns Matt Duchene and Gabriel Landeskog, as Duchene has really found his game skating on the left wing. Duchene is no longer waiting for the puck, he is asserting himself in the game and making plays, the dangerous player we have come to love and admire over the past few seasons. Simply put the avs desperately need a change, and that needs to be either a trade or coaching change, or they will keep losing trades and give up a top 5 pick to Washington. After a 5-0 road trip to start the season, the avs are now 7-7-1 and at .500 for the first time, and if they don't fix the problem soon they will find themselves well below it after this month. After a hot start, Varlamov has struggled and simply isn't seeing the puck as well. While it is still early, I feel he still needs time to develop his rhythm as he is still new to the team. If the avs won't make a trade, then atleast name a captain and put someone in charge of this team (Matt Duchene, Ryan O'Reilly or my choice Erik Johnson). While it is always fun to watch this rivalry, I'm getting sick of watching this team lose games that they should be in, and change is needed asap. Everytime the avs got back in the game, Detroit took control and calmed things down, as teams are figuring out how to stop the fast-paced avs. If the avs continue to play this way, Sacco has to get fired, and I have been a supporter of him from day 1 but he just isn't cutting it right now. It will be some time before Mueller comes back, and the avs need to get another top 6 forward asap.
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. Erik Johnson - The bright spot for the avs this season has been the defence chipping in offensively, and on the 2 goals tonight the avs d picked up 3 of 4 assists. Johnson had 1 assist in just over 23 minutes of work, and has asserted himself as the leader of the back-end which is why I believe he needs to be named captain
2. Gabriel Landeskog - The rookie continues his strong play, scoring his 5th career goal and first on the PP. He had 3 hits, and fired 5 shots on goal to lead the avs this season with 56 shots and 3rd in the league.
1. Matt Duchene - After a horrid start, Duchene has really heated up of late notching an assist for 6 points in his last 3 games. Duchene looks more comfortable on the wing, really finding his place on a line with Hejduk and Stastny and has been one of few good players for the avs this month so far. He now has 5 goals and 7 assists on the season

Misplay of the Game: Easy choice, Hunwick's soft cover in front of the net led to the 4th Wings goal. Simply put, Hunwick shouldn't even be in the lineup as 7 d was just silly, but he definitely played his way back to the press box after tonight (atleast I and many other avs fans hoped so)

Game #16 - The avs look to solve their home and November issues as the New York Islanders are in town Thursday night (@9pm).

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #14 - Calgary 2, Colorado 1

Eventually this team needs to start learning from their mistakes, or they are going to find themselves sitting at the bottom of the Western Conference once again very quickly. Simply put, the avs are outshooting every opponent but not producing, and its time right now for a trade or coaching change. Even with Mueller coming back, players like Kevin Porter and Chuck Kobasew are being forced into roles they shouldn't be in, and it cost them the winning goal tonight as Kobasew made an awful attempt at the clear before Calgary scored. There are two obvious things from this game: that the OWL line and top line of Duchene Hejduk Stastny are going to stay together, as both lines were great tonight chemistry wise. The problem was the other two lines, as Coach Sacco continuously switched guys on these lines and couldn't find the right mix and they cost the avs both goals. Varlamov played well tonight, despite allowing Giordano's soft point shot in, but once again the offensive couldn't back up his strong play. Regardless of the outcome, change is needed asap as they need to either bring someone in or let Sacco go and replace him with a new coach. A healthy Mueller should provide a spark for this team, but after a hot start they have played simply awful and have just been invisible in their own rink, an embarrassing stat at 1-5 in Denver. Another tough one to swallow for this team, but it is early and they need to learn from this game: Change is needed.
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. Shane O'Brien - Has been a great player for the avs all season long, and he chipped in tonight with an assist in almost 20 minutes of work.
2. Paul Stastny - The first line has emerged after the past two games, and Stastny has some chemistry with Duchene and Hejduk as he scored the avs lone goal tonight
1. Matt Duchene - Matt finally seems to have found his game, as he picked up an assist on the lone goal but more importantly is starting to become a presence on the ice. With true linemates, he is creating scoring chances not trying to find them, and he is primed for a good run with this line

Misplay of the Game: Both goals tonight, the first just a soft goal let in by Varlamov. But the real thing that pissed me off was the 2nd goal, as Chuck Kobasew just lazily dove at the puck and didn't clear the zone, allowing them to score seconds later. Kobasew needs to be sent a message for his awful play, and that should be him being benched next game

Game #15 - Doesn't get any easier for the avs, as they head to Detroit to face the Red Wings on Tuesday night (@730pm) in search of their first win in November.

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #13 - Dallas 7, Colorado 6 (OT)

In a high scoring western conference tilt with the Dallas Stars, they avs came up short losing in OT - a tough one to swallow after dominating OT before allowing the goal. Coach Sacco finally gave Duchene the linemates he needed, and man oh man did he respond tonight recording his first career hatrick and picking up an assist for a 4-point night. Duchene skated on the LW with Paul Stastny and Milan Hejduk, and the best three forwards on the avs didn't disappoint providing 4 of the avs 6 goals. If this game was a sign for Joe Sacco, he needs to keep this line together as it showed what having good linemates can do for Duchene. Duchene only had 2 goals and 4 assists before this game, but he broke out in style recording his first career hatrick, and I believe this will come as a huge confidence boost for the 20-year old despite the loss. Simply put, the avs D and goaltending were awful tonight, as they were allowing too much traffic to get in front of Varlamov and he had a hard time seeing several of the Stars goals. The avs gave up three leads in this game, a 2-0 (and allowing 4 straight 2nd period stars goals), 5-4 lead and 6-5 lead before losing it in OT. For the second straight night they were defeated in the faceoff dot, only by two draws winning 35 of 72. The avs have been great at getting tons of shots, firing 40 on goal tonight for 6 goals, but came up one short. In a game where the offense was clicking, but the defence was awful, the avs just couldn't get the two points and walked away with 1. Besides Duchene, McClement Winnik (2nd straight game) and Stastny scored the other goals. Ryan Wilson had his best game of the season, with 3 assists he now has 1 goal and 7 assists as well as a team best +8. Despite a great game from the top line, the avs can't be happy with this loss and certainly will serve as a learning point for the whole team.
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. Erik Johnson - Despite getting victimized on the game winning goal, Johnson had another rock-solid game picking up an assist while logging just over 27 minutes of work. I thought he made Ryan Wilson play a lot better in a new pairing on d, but most importantly he continues to lead with force and strong play on the ice, big reasons I believe he eventually will be named captain of this team
2. Ryan Wilson - Had his best game in an av uniform tonight, picking up 3 assists being paired with Erik Johnson. Wilson has been known for his physical play, but he has really chipped in offensively with 8 points this season and a team best +8. I didn't think he would even make the team this year, but he has been a great surprise and surely solidified his spot on the team after years of fighting for a spot
1. Matt Duchene - What a game for Duchene, paired with Stastny and Hejduk he really got a chance to showcase his top notch talent tonight in scoring his first career hatrick and picking up an assist for a 4-point night. I have been saying for weeks that he needs a true winger, but playing on the wing with Stastny and having Hejduk on the other side really creates room for him to find his place. Simply put, this line is dominant with the puck and can cycle as good as any first line in the league, and Coach Sacco needs to keep them together. Congrats to Matt on his first career hatrick

Misplay of the Game: Two seperate plays here, first being Ryan O'Byrne knocking the puck into his own net for the first Stars goal, which was a real momentum shift for Dallas in the 2nd. But the obvious choice was the OT goal, as Hejda knocked Varly out of his net and Erik Johnson couldn't cover up as Eriksson banked it off EJ in the net for the game winning goal

Play of the Game: No brainer here, Matt Duchene's hatrick goal was simply nasty as he split two Stars defenders with a beauty toe drag and put it past Lehtonen for his first career hatrick

Game #14 - The avs head home for a divisional matchup with the Calgary Flames, as they look to rebound following two straight losses as well as revenge on the Flames who beat them a few games ago. The game is Sunday night (@8pm).

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #12 - Phoenix 4, Colorado 1

It seems that the avs haven't figured out their woes at home, as they put everything towards Mike Smith tonight but only to score 1 goal on 40 shots. At some point, the avs need to figure out their game at home or it is going to be a tough season for them despite a good start. The avs found themselves out-dueled in the faceoff dot for the first time this season, losing 36 of 66 faceoffs. I was only able to catch the first period and a bit of the second before going to my own hockey game, but it seemed that the avs were creating scoring chances just not capitalizing. There have been several similar games like this (e.g. vs Edmonton) where the avs pour on the shots but can't muster up any offence. It seems that the only line really clicking for the avs once again is the OWL line, as they produced the only goal. While Varlamov didn't play amazing, he played alright and the avs are starting to lose games without being able to produce anything for Varly at the other end. While he has played exceptionally well so far, he isn't going to steal every game, and the avs found that out tonight losing to a more defensive Coyotes team. Overall, this wasn't as horrible as some of the other losses this season, but the avs really need to start fixing their scoring issues particularly at home. I think it is time to pull a trigger on a trade and get Matt Duchene a winger he can become comfortable with (something they've lacked since Fleishmann last season, who I hated seeing them let go I thought it was a no brainer to keep him after his hot start with the avs).
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. Ryan O'Byrne - Picked up an assist on the only avs goal, and was the only avs player in the plus tonight with +1 in almost 15 minutes of work
2. Daniel Winnik - Probably the most underrated player on the roster, he gets overshadowed by Landeskog and O'Reilly, but Daniel is really playing well this season and his line is by far the best. He picked up an assist on O'Reilly's goal
1. Ryan O'Reilly - The young centre is off to a great start this season, finding his offensive game and he scored the lone avs goal. He now has 2 goals and 7 assists to lead the avs in points with 9

Misplay of the Game: Jan Hejda failing to clear the puck, leading to the Coyotes 2nd goal scored by Vrbata gets it tonight

Game #13 - The avs head to Dallas to meet the streaking Stars on Friday night (@830pm)

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Andy Sutton Suspension - Was it Enough?

My Thoughts: From having watched this game first-hand, I thought Sutton should have been given 5 and a game for the elbow and I knew suspension was looming for him. He was given 2 minutes for elbowing, but I loved how Shane O'Brien stepped in to fight him immediately (showing exactly the reason why the avs signed him in the offseason - to provide size and grit, but to protect their star players). This could have and was a scary incident, and luckily, Landeskog shook it off right away, but Sutton clearly targeted the head as Shanny stated in his explanation. These are the type of hits that are trying to be eliminated from our game, especially in terms of the veteran Sutton going after the 18-year old rookie Landeskog, it just looks horrible on Andy's part. In simplest terms, Sutton wasn't trying to injure Gabriel but it was a head shot on a player who wasn't expecting it, a blindside hit where Landeskog wasn't looking before getting the elbow to the head. For me, if James Wisniewski was given 8 games for his elbow, I felt that Sutton should have gotten a similar suspension as I felt his hit was much worse (and like Wisniewski, Sutton is a repeat offender). Ultimately the biggest factor was that Landeskog was not hurt, but I still felt that it was a vicious elbow deserving of a 8-10 game suspension. Regardless, Sutton paid the price and was suspended 5 games yesterday, forking over $57,432.45 in salary. For me, I love the way Shanahan is handling his disciplinary role so far, and I think he is making our game safer for everyone.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/blog/puck_daddy/post/Andy-Sutton-gets-5-game-ban-for-Landeskog-hit-a;_ylt=AqHulA94F_g8dDWgWBvILrd7vLYF?urn=nhl-wp16409

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3tSuisrmpnU

Above I have posted two links: the first is yahoo sports' Greg Wyshynski's take on the hit (with video of Shanahan's explanation), and the second is the actual Youtube video of the hit. 

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #11 - Colorado 3, Los Angeles 2

In a close in-conference game with the visiting Kings, the avs refused to go down a goal and allowed 1-0 and 2-1 leads to vanish before taking the 3-2 lead for good on a beautiful Matt Duchene goal. In a game where Duchene was needed at his best, he stepped up in the spotlight and delivered the game winning goal when his team called upon him and this could be the beginning of an offensive outburst for the young centre. The avs scored 3 goals in 3 different ways tonight, starting with a SH goal from Kobasew, a PP goal by Milan Hejduk and the 3rd even strength by Duchene. While they allowed two PP goals tonight, the avs played a very solid 5-on-5 game and really limited the scoring chances for the talented LA forwards (despite being outshot 32-16). The leagues #1 faceoff team (avs) met a very similarly good team tonight, but were able to win 55% of the draws in 27 of 49 faceoffs. Once again Semyon Varlamov had an extremely good night in net, stopping 30 of 32 shots and only allowing two PP goals - one out of mid air by Parse and the other on a 5-3 PP by Kopitar after making the initial two saves (both not his fault). Varlamov has earned the respect of his teammates after a great first month, but the main positive attribute is that he trusts his defence and that is one thing that we never saw last season - the avs defence play a commanding and tough defensive game in front of Varly, while also jumping in to the play to create scoring chances. Kyle Quincey is really starting to standout on this team, after missing most of last year he picked up another 2 assists tonight to give him 2 goals and 6 assists, but also a 4 game point streak. It is obvious that EJ and Hejda are the top pairing on the team, but I have been absolutely impressed with the pairing of Quincey and O'Brien as not only Quincey is clicking on offense but Shane O'Brien has just been a force around the whole rink. He doesn't seem like he was more than a rough defence in his past, but so far with the avs he has shown serious improvements with his skating and puck moving, really jumping into plays and making great reads on passes. Throw in Wilson and O'Byrne who are the tough pairing, and all 3 defence pairs have not only stuck together all season but have really made room for the avs forwards to use their speed. The lines were shuffled pre-game, and I think they really worked tonight as I was particularly impressed with T.J Galiardi. Returning from missing the last game, he skated with Stastny and Hejduk and really played well at both ends of the ice, something that Galiardi didn't have a chance to do on the 4th line. The OWL line played well as usual, but I really felt that the line of Duchene Jones and Lindstrom was their best tonight, and it paid off with the winning goal off of Duchene's stick. Jones is a force on the puck, and really gives Duchene not only a solid winger to pass to but someone that will create space for him which has been needed in the past. Coach Sacco finally took Kobasew out of the top 6, and I thought he played better in a 4th line role with McClement and McLeod (also paid off as he scored a SH goal). Overall, I thought that this was a very well played team game, one that Coach Sacco should be happy with after two terrible losses.
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. Kyle Quincey - Has been the avs best D the last few games, and its paying off for him as 2 assists tonight give him points in his last 4 games. As stated before, Quincey and O'Brien have formed a great D pairing for the avs so far
2. David Jones - Stepping into a new line tonight, Jones did more than asked for in setting up two of the three goals. He dumped the puck on the PP which led to the bounce for Hejduk's goal, but made a beautiful pass to Duchene to set up the game winning goal
1. Matt Duchene - I'm sure I, along with all avs fans, have been waiting for Duchene to step up and he did it against the right team. Duchene played a very solid game all around, but was the difference scoring early in the 3rd on a beautiful wrist shot. Hopefully this is the start of an offensive outburst for Matt

Play of the Game: Easy choice, Matt Duchene's game winning goal was just an absolute snipe past Jon Quick. Taking a feed off the boards from Jones, Duchene flew into the zone and beat Quick over the glove. Honourable mention goes to Kobasew for his SH goal, as he took a nifty pass from Landeskog and swooped around the net to tuck it past Quick

Game #12 - The avs play their first game in November on Wednesday, as the Phoenix Coyotes are in town (@930pm).

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News

Game #10 - Edmonton 3, Colorado 1

Two straight divisional losses have quickly cooled the avs hot start down, as they simply couldn't beat Devan Dubnyk tonight. Sooner or later the avs must figure out how to play on their own ice, they have been horrid in 3 games scoring only 2 goals (while allowing 9) and losing all 3 games. In a game where the avs outshot them 41 to 19, won 35 of 55 faceoffs and just outplayed the Oilers they couldn't finish. Coach Sacco finally did some line juggling virtually switching every line except the OWL line. Matt Duchene had a strong game tonight, and he really needs a winger to play with as Lindstrom and Kobasew were simply weak tonight. With Galiardi sitting with an injury, Kevin Porter stepped in and created an awful giveaway for the Oilers third goal mere seconds after the avs made it 2-1, and he just played a terrible game in a time where he needed to step up for the injured Galiardi. Once again another defenceman stepped up for Landeskog, as Andy Sutton hit him high with an elbow and O'Brien immediately jumped in and fought him (Sutton should be suspended). Overall, I thought Varlamov played well but the 3rd goal was pretty weak, but on the other hand your typical Ryan Smyth goal as the former av jammed it past him. After a hot start, the avs have really fell flat in two games and they either need to try some new lines or trade for a winger for Duchene because they are wasting his skill playing with two non-scoring wingers. If a trade isn't happening immediately, and Mueller remains out my suggestion is this: Move Lindstrom back with Jones and Stastny in a line that was great in pre camp, and then that leaves Hejduk back with Duchene and for now Kobasew until Mueller is back, because there is no point breaking up O'Reilly Winnik and Landeskog as they have been by far the best line all season. Before the game I thought that the Landeskog/Nugent-Hopkins matchup was going to be a factor, but Nugent-Hopkins (and his whole line of Eberle and Hall) were virtually invisible tonight and Landeskog was his usual self firing 6 shots on goal and really playing a solid all around game. Another game where the avs just couldn't score, and this loss will definitely hurt.
Avalanche Three Stars:
3. Kyle Quincey - Kyle picked up another assist to give him 2 goals and 4 assists this season. Missing most of the season last year, Quincey has really picked up his game this season and continues to be a force on the blueline
2. Matt Duchene - Duchene played a much better game today, was strong on the puck and had several good scoring chances just not able to beat Dubnyk. He picked up an assist on a beauty pass to O'Reilly, his first point in 3 games, and went 11 for 14 in the face-off dot. Simply put the avs gotta change things up and get him some better wingers (either via trade or Hejduk and Mueller if hes healthy)
1. Ryan O'Reilly - O'Reilly is really coming into his own in his third season, with 7 assists coming into this game he finally scored his first of the season via a beauty pass from Duchene. O'Reilly has developed great chemistry with Winnik and Landeskog, and once again was the only effective line on the ice for the 2nd game in a row. The other lines are struggling but it will be extremely tough to break this line up

Misplay of the Game: An easy choice for me, Kevin Porter's awful turnover on the Oilers 3rd goal. He shouldn't even be in the lineup, and when he finally gets a chance he surrenders the puck seconds after the avs were finally able to score, a massive blow to the team and to his confidence as he will surely be benched once again after a terrible game

Game #11 - The avs play their final game of October on Sunday, as the Kings are in town (@8pm). The avs need a win at home, and this will surely be a tough game against the talented Kings.

-Joel Forman - Colorado Avalanche News