Bold Take: The Avalanche are chasing a rare road test against a resilient Kraken squad, and this matchup could redefine how Colorado answers questions about balance and depth. But here’s where it gets controversial... the path to victory might hinge less on star power and more on strategic tweaks and timely execution.
The Colorado Avalanche (23-2-7) travel to Seattle for a single-game assignment against the Kraken (12-12-6), with puck drop slated for 8:22 p.m. MT.
Key Themes to Watch
- First-time meeting with Seattle, plus a reunion with a former deadline prize: Ryan Lindgren. Colorado attempted to keep him but ultimately watched him sign a four-year deal with the Kraken on July 1.
- In goal, Mackenzie Blackwood gets the start. He’s posted a 9-1-1 record with a .920 save percentage and will likely square off against Philipp Grubauer, Seattle’s 10-start goaltender this season.
- Forwards alignment could revert to the top-line combination. After a swap with Gavin Brindley for one game, Martin Necas may reclaim top-line duties if the recent line changes hold.
- Seattle’s recent form raises eyebrows: the Kraken are 2-7-1 over their last 10 and own the league’s lowest total goal count at 74 for the season.
Season Interactions
- December 19 at Seattle
- March 12 at Seattle
- April 18 vs Seattle
Avalanche Injury Status
- Logan O’Connor, listed as day-to-day with an undisclosed issue
Line Combinations (Projected, subject to change)
- Artturi Lehkonen — Nathan MacKinnon — Martin Necas
- Gabriel Landeskog — Brock Nelson — Valeri Nichushkin
- Victor Olofsson — Ross Colton — Gavin Brindley
- Parker Kelly — Jack Drury — Joel Kiviranta
Defensive Pairings
- Devon Toews — Cale Makar
- Josh Manson — Brent Burns
- Samuel Girard — Sam Malinski
Projected Starting Goaltenders
- Mackenzie Blackwood (COL)
- Philipp Grubauer (SEA)
Milestones to Watch
- Brock Nelson needs 5 assists to reach 300 in his career.
- Nathan MacKinnon requires 7 goals to hit 400.
How to Watch
- TV: TNT, truTV, Altitude TV
- Radio: 92.5 FM
Notes for Fans
If you’re trying to gauge how Colorado matches Seattle’s pace, pay attention to how the Avalanche manage transition play and forecheck angles against a Kraken team that’s been tighter defensively this season. The game could hinge on whether Colorado can sustain pressure after Seattle’s puck retrievals and whether Blackwood can maintain composure against a Kraken squad hungry to prove it belongs in the win column against a top-tier opponent.
Thought-Provoking Question
Do you think the Avalanche’s decision to re-align Necas to a top-line role signals a willingness to lean into players who bring speed and adaptability, or is this a strategic gamble that could disrupt familiar chemistry? Share your take in the comments.
