Avalanche Face Canucks in Must-Win Game Tonight

DENVER, CO — The Colorado Avalanche prepare to take on the Vancouver Canucks tonight at Ball Arena in a pivotal matchup as the regular season comes to a close. The game is set to begin at 7 p.m. MDT.

The Avalanche, currently holding a record of 46 wins, 27 losses, and 4 overtime losses, are seeking to solidify their playoff position. Following a thrilling victory against the Vegas Golden Knights, Colorado will look to bounce back from two previous losses to the Canucks this season, where they failed to generate sufficient offense.

“It’s crucial for us to build momentum heading into the postseason,” said Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar. “We need to focus on our game and execute better, especially against a team like Vancouver.”

Despite the return of key players Martin Necas and Samuel Girard, the Avalanche will be without star forward Nathan MacKinnon, who is dealing with a minor injury. He is unlikely to participate in the final games of the regular season. Also absent are players Josh Manson and Ross Colton, while Jonathan Drouin and Samuel Girard are considered day-to-day.

The Avalanche’s projected lineup includes Artturi Lehkonen, Brock Nelson, and Valeri Nichushkin on the top line, with Necas returning to play alongside Joel Kiviranta and Charlie Coyle. Meanwhile, Mackenzie Blackwood is slated to start in net.

The Canucks, who currently sit at 36 wins, 29 losses, and 13 overtime losses, have seen their playoff hopes dim after a disappointing season marked by injuries and inconsistent play. Vancouver’s struggles have been amplified by the absence of key players, including Elias Pettersson, who has not played since March 22.

“We’ve had a rough patch, but we’re not giving up,” said Canucks forward Jake DeBrusk. “We want to finish strong, and playing against a strong team like Colorado gives us a chance to do that.”

Vancouver on Thursday announced its lineup, featuring players Nils Hoglander, Pius Suter, and Conor Garland leading the offensive charge. Thatcher Demko is expected to start in goal, looking to replicate his success against the Avalanche earlier in the season.

Arizona Coyotes’ Akira Schmid was mentioned as a backup, with injuries sidelining several players including Colton Parayko, Dylan Holloway, and Alexandre Texier.

The stakes are high for both teams tonight as they navigate through the final games of the season. Fans at Ball Arena can anticipate an intense game as the Avalanche aim for playoff readiness while the Canucks fight to redeem a challenging season.