Avalanche Host Rangers in Thrilling Homestand Finale

DENVER, Colorado – The Colorado Avalanche will face the New York Rangers on Thursday night at Ball Arena, wrapping up a four-game homestand. The matchup starts at 7 p.m. MT, and fans can catch the action on Altitude, KUSA-9, and KTVD-20, as well as on Altitude Sports Radio (92.5 FM).

This game marks the first of two contests between these teams this season, with the second set for December 6 at Madison Square Garden. Colorado comes into the game riding a six-game winning streak after defeating the New York Islanders 4-1 on Sunday.

In that game, Ross Colton, Victor Olofsson, Martin Necas, and Brock Nelson each scored, with Scott Wedgewood making 28 saves. The Islanders initially took the lead, but Colton quickly evened the score in the second period. Olofsson then provided the Avalanche with a 2-1 advantage, followed by Necas sealing the victory with an empty-net goal.

Nathan MacKinnon currently leads the NHL with 33 points and is tied for first in goals with 14. Cale Makar also shines, leading all defensemen in points with 25. Meanwhile, Necas ranks tied for third in the league for goals scored.

The Rangers are looking to bounce back after a tough 3-2 loss to the Vegas Golden Knights on Tuesday. Throughout the game, New York struggled to maintain momentum, even as Vincent Trocheck narrowed the gap in the final minutes.

In their historical matchups, the Avalanche hold an impressive 27-14-5 record against the Rangers. Makar has attained 11 points in 10 contests versus New York, while MacKinnon has notched 22 points in 20 games.

As Colorado allows the fewest goals in the league at 2.37 per game, the Rangers aren’t far behind, ranking third with 2.48 goals allowed. Fan-favorite Artemi Panarin leads the Rangers with 19 points and 14 assists, while Mika Zibanejad holds the title for most goals on the team.

“It’s all about our defensive game as a team. We work hard to block shots and support each other,” Wedgewood said, commenting on their strong penalty kill and disciplined play.

Fans are eager to see if Colorado can continue their winning ways against the Rangers as the teams clash at Ball Arena.