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