Avalanche Aim to Extend Streak Against Struggling Wild

DENVER, Colo. — The Colorado Avalanche look to continue their winning momentum as they face the Minnesota Wild in a matinee showdown at Ball Arena on Monday. Fresh off a decisive 6-3 victory over the Dallas Stars on Saturday, the Avalanche aim to capitalize on the Wild’s three-game losing streak, fueled by a spate of injuries.

The Avalanche, currently 28-18-1, are riding high after a dominant performance from their second line, which combined for 10 points against the Stars. Key contributors included Jonathan Drouin, who scored his 100th NHL goal, and linemates Casey Mittelstadt and Artturi Lehkonen. “It really was staggering how badly the Avs’ second line ripped the Stars apart yesterday,” tweeted AJ Haefele, a local sports analyst.

All eyes will be on defenseman Cale Makar, who returned to the ice after taking a shot to his skate during Saturday’s game. Despite visible discomfort, Makar scored his 101st NHL goal, underscoring his critical role in Colorado’s success. “A healthy Cale Makar is paramount to Colorado’s success in 2025,” noted analysts.

The Wild, sitting at 27-15-4, have struggled recently, winning only half of their last 10 games due to injuries. “The Wild are a good team when healthy, but they’re human,” said Brennan Vogt, a sports commentator. Minnesota’s defensive lineup has been particularly hard-hit, raising questions about their ability to contain Colorado’s offensive firepower.

In goal, the Avalanche are expected to start Mackenzie Blackwood, who has been a reliable presence this season despite a recent hiccup against the Edmonton Oilers. “Mackenzie Blackwood has played his way into the Vezina Trophy conversation,” tweeted the NHL Network. Meanwhile, the Wild are likely to counter with Filip Gustavsson.

Fans are also watching for the potential return of Avalanche forward Valeri Nichushkin, who has been sidelined but is reportedly “close” to rejoining the lineup, according to head coach Jared Bednar.

The game, set for 1:00 p.m. MT, will be broadcast on Altitude TV, Altitude+, and ESPN+, with radio coverage on Altitude Sports Radio, 92.5 FM.