Colorado Avalanche Prepare Roster for Upcoming NHL Season Opener

The Colorado Avalanche are gearing up for their NHL season opener on Wednesday, where they could potentially field as many as five rookies. These players, including Nikolai Kovalenko, Calum Ritchie, Ivan Ivan, Sam Malinski, and Justus Annunen, have secured their spots following impressive performances during the preseason. However, the challenges of the regular season present a different level of competition.

Speaking on the situation, Avalanche general manager Chris MacFarland emphasized the importance of being ready from the start. “We all know the level is going to get jacked up significantly here,” MacFarland stated, highlighting the need for the team to avoid waiting for more experienced players to return.

With veterans Artturi Lehkonen, Valeri Nichushkin, and Gabriel Landeskog unavailable due to injuries, the Avalanche have relied on new talent to fill in the gaps. Head coach Jared Bednar expressed optimism about the rookies stepping up. “I like the fact that we’ve got some new blood in here and they’re hungry to be a part of what we’ve built over the last number of years,” Bednar remarked.

Kovalenko, solidifying his position during training and preseason, expressed excitement for the opportunity ahead. “I play only 200%, not less, because it’s my favorite game in the world,” Kovalenko told The Denver Gazette. His transition to the NHL follows six years of professional play in Russia.

Ritchie, a center at just 19 years old, has drawn attention with his standout skills. During a recent preseason game, he demonstrated his capabilities with a remarkable breakaway goal, showcasing both vision and technical ability. “Ritchie’s been great,” teammate Casey Mittelstadt said, noting Ritchie’s ability to make plays and score goals.

Bednar confirmed that Ritchie would be in the lineup for Wednesday’s game, an announcement that led to celebratory phone calls to Ritchie’s family, who plan to attend the game. “It’s unbelievable to share with them,” Ritchie reflected, grateful for his family’s support throughout his career.

As the Avalanche prepare for the early stages of the NHL season, the development and performance of the rookies will be crucial. “I’m definitely looking forward to it,” Mittelstadt added, hopeful about the potential of his newly formed line with Kovalenko and Ritchie.