Comments on: 10 Observations: Avalanche Are Working on Not Passing Up Shots (+)

By: ricoflashback

ricoflashback — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 14:55:27 +0000

The Avs started slow but Philadelphia also played very hard in that first period. Especially the first ten minutes. The reason why Necas is good on the PK is that he creates space for his own shot and passing lanes. Rants is a fantastic finisher – one of the best in the game. But he does not, repeat, does not create his own space or shot, nor does he play physical like the ESPN column incorrectly stated in their article when he was traded. Necas can go end to end with the puck in his possession. I’ve seen Mikko get easily pushed aside when he is one on one with the puck. I’m not trying to be negative about Rantanen. But that’s one key difference between Necas and Rants.

Still not hitting on all cylinders and not burying chances when they have them (playing catch with the goalies chest) but a nice defensive effort. And two comeback games from Blackwood. The penalty by Wood was terrible. Totally unnecessary and typical of the idiot penalties Wood takes. I’ve been in Miles corner about his speed and intensity when he plays. But these penalties are chronic with him and to the point that if there are any takers out there for him, I’d welcome a trade.

By: Dave North

Dave North — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 07:25:27 +0000

At least you can say this for Miles Wood: He doesn’t overthink his game. All speed and no thought…

By: Dave North

Dave North — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 07:23:49 +0000

In reply to Matt Briggle.

I would definitely go to a Condor Bar & Grill!

By: Matt Briggle

Matt Briggle — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 05:44:20 +0000

That is one side benefit of the Mikko trade that will be realized soon – they now have the cap space to sigh Drouin to a 4-5 year deal. I have no idea what the contract will look like, but I don’t think it will be too hard for the Avs. His agent is already on record about this situation saying, “don’t f*** with happy”.

If this is EJ’s last game in Denver, I’m wondering what his future holds. I know he’s said for years that Denver is his home now and he still has his house here. He’s also got the horses and everything. I wonder if the Avs might be able to talk him into some sort of consulting role or something like that. Or maybe there could be a Condor Bar and Grill or steakhouse on the horizon somewhere near the arena or in a new future development.

By: Joe Cerwinske

Joe Cerwinske — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 01:40:17 +0000

Drouin has been an enormous difference maker when he’s been on the ice this season. I’m not sure what was ailing him that made him miss so many games, but if he and the training staff can get it ironed out, I would absolutely welcome him back with a longer term deal. One thing working in our favor if we want to keep him after this season: I would think teams around the league assume he wants to stay here, so I doubt many would make a serious push to sign him. That was also likely the thought this past season. It’s always been a matter of health with Drouin, both physically and mentally. He’s got the latter in a good place it seems since his move to the Avs and his best friend’s wing. If he can get the former in a good place, he’ll continue being the biggest bargain in the league this year (as he was last year), and possibly beyond.