Colorado Avalanche: 3 Things to Watch in November
After an 8-1-5 start to the 2025-26 season, the Avalanche remain Stanley Cup favorites, despite some early challenges. They currently top many power rankings and lead the league in points.
Early Season Performance Highlights
- The Avalanche hold the best point total in the NHL after the first month of play.
- They have struggled with a power play that hasn’t yet found consistent success.
- The team remains winless in overtime games so far this season.
Coaching Changes and Power Play Adjustments
The Avalanche made a coaching change in the offseason, parting ways with Ray Bennett after a surprising first-round playoff exit. Dave Hakstol was hired to bring a more aggressive approach to the power play unit.
Impact of Lineup Changes on the Power Play
Despite having a strong lineup on paper, the Avalanche’s power play initially looked stiff, producing fewer scoring chances than expected.
Recently, Brock Nelson was moved to the second unit, with Valeri Nichushkin taking his spot on the first unit. Nichushkin’s size and physicality have added a new dimension.
“That change led to 4 power play goals against New Jersey and a point against the NHL's third best penalty kill in Tampa Bay.”
Looking Ahead
The Avalanche need to maintain their top form while improving their power play and overtime performance to sustain their Stanley Cup contender status.