The Colorado Avalanche are in a precarious position as the March 7 trade deadline approaches, struggling with consistency and goal production. With a 9-9-2 record in their last 20 games and averaging just 2.6 goals per game, they find themselves near the bottom of the league in scoring. Coach Jared Bednar has highlighted that secondary scoring is needed, particularly as Nathan MacKinnon continues to be a crucial player on the ice.

Valeri Nichushkin's potential return could provide a much-needed boost, as he practiced with key players ahead of a game against the New Jersey Devils. Meanwhile, Casey Mittelstadt's performance has dipped significantly, and other forwards like Joel Kiviranta and Ross Colton have also been underperforming. The Avalanche’s depth has been called into question, with Bednar emphasizing the need for contributions from all lines if they hope to improve before the playoffs.

The Colorado Avalanche face a significant challenge as they prepare for their upcoming games against the Edmonton Oilers, with both teams boasting some of the most prolific scorers in the NHL. The Avs, however, have struggled with their power play, converting only 6 of 51 chances over the last 17 games and failing to score in their last five outings. Defenseman Cale Makar emphasized the need to regain their early-season mentality to create more offensive opportunities.

Historically, the Avalanche ranked highly in power-play efficiency, but their current form has dropped them to 17th this season. Coach Jared Bednar remains optimistic, pointing to the team’s overall success despite power-play issues. The Avs are still managing to win games, indicating that they have found alternative ways to score. Nonetheless, the power play slump—now at two five-game stretches without a goal—needs addressing as they look to capitalize on their scoring potential with players like Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen.

Patrik Laine is the leading player in fantasy points per 60 minutes (FPP60) among NHL players with less than 200 minutes on the ice this season, averaging 10.4 points. This rank allows us to highlight effective players, even if they may not see increased ice time opportunities.

For instance, if an injury were to occur on the Winnipeg Jets' power-play unit, Nikolaj Ehlers, currently averaging 15:38 minutes, could see a rise in minutes, as he ranks in the top 10 for FPP60. Other notable players like Dylan Guenther and Kiefer Sherwood are also under observation for potential increased roles due to their current production rates.

The Colorado Avalanche secured a dramatic 3-2 overtime win against the New York Rangers, despite coach Jared Bednar's criticism of his team's overall performance. Devon Toews scored the decisive goal just seconds before the game ended, though Bednar expressed concern over how only part of his team seemed to be engaged. Mackenzie Blackwood, the Avalanche's goalie, was instrumental in the victory, maintaining a strong record since joining the team.

Logan O’Connor's effort in overtime was praised by Bednar, highlighting the determination needed to succeed in the league. Artturi Lehkonen played a crucial role in equalizing the game late in regulation, demonstrating his hockey IQ and hard work. However, the Avalanche's power play woes continued, failing to convert on three opportunities during the game, reflecting ongoing struggles.

Nathan MacKinnon propelled the Colorado Avalanche to a decisive 6-1 victory over the Minnesota Wild, contributing a goal and a league-leading 53rd assist this season. The win showcased the Avalanche's offensive prowess, with Mikko Rantanen and Logan O’Connor each adding a goal and an assist, while Ross Colton, Parker Kelly, and Artturi Lehkonen also found the net. Mackenzie Blackwood stood strong in goal, making 24 saves, while the Wild struggled to capitalize on their chances.

Colorado's offensive onslaught began in the second period when MacKinnon set up Rantanen for a well-placed wrist shot, extending their lead to 2-1. The Avs scored three goals in a quick succession during the third period, with MacKinnon securing a goal assisted by Rantanen. The Avalanche, despite a previous loss, appeared dominant against a depleted Wild team missing key players like Kirill Kaprizov.