Opinion
3 min read

Can the Colorado Avalanche Rebound Against the Detroit Red Wings at Little Caesars Arena?

As the Colorado Avalanche gear up to face off against the Detroit Red Wings at Little Caesars Arena, fans are holding their breath for what promises to be a pivotal moment in their season. The upcoming game on February 23 is not just another match on the calendar; it's an opportunity for redemption and a test of resilience.


Mar 18, 2023; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Red Wings defenseman Jake Walman (96) is held back by linesman Tyson Baker (88) during the first period at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brian Bradshaw Sevald-USA TODAY Sports

The Avalanche's recent performance has been less than stellar, with a particularly disheartening shutout loss to the Florida Panthers on February 11. Despite firing off 35 shots, they couldn't find the back of the net and succumbed to a -10 plus-minus rating. Their powerplay was ineffective, capitalizing on none of their opportunities and winning all faceoffs during those moments proved fruitless.


In contrast, when they faced off against Carolina Hurricanes just one day prior, they managed to score twice but still left with a loss. The six powerplay chances that day didn't translate into goals either — an area that has become an Achilles' heel for COL.


Mar 18, 2023; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Colorado Avalanche players celebrate a goal by center Lars Eller (20) during the third period against the Detroit Red Wings at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brian Bradshaw Sevald-USA TODAY Sports

However, it wasn't all doom and gloom in recent outings. On February 7 against New Jersey Devils, COL showed glimpses of promise despite another loss. They scored three times from 38 shots and were more disciplined in penalties compared to previous games.


The Red Wings should be wary; this is a team looking to bounce back hard. COL's aggressive playstyle is evident from their high shot count in past games — averaging over 33 shots per game — which suggests that goals are bound to come if they maintain this pressure.


Mar 18, 2023; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Colorado Avalanche center Lars Eller (20) takes a shot on Detroit Red Wings goaltender Ville Husso (35) at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brian Bradshaw Sevald-USA TODAY Sports

DET must prepare for an onslaught but can take comfort knowing that COL’s goaltending has shown cracks under pressure recently — conceding four goals each in two out of three past games despite save percentages hovering around perfection.


For fans of COL, there’s reason for cautious optimism as your team heads into enemy territory. The key will be converting those numerous shots into tangible results while tightening up defensively to support your goaltender better than you have recently.


Mark your calendars: February 23 at Little Caesars Arena is where we'll see if COL can turn things around or if DET will capitalize on their vulnerabilities. Puck drop is scheduled at 7:00 PM EST and fans can catch all the action live on ESPN+ nationally or ALT2 channel number 681-1 for local coverage away from home.

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