Opinion
3 min read

Avalanche and Blackhawks Clash in Mile-High Showdown at Ball Arena

As the Colorado Avalanche gear up to host the Chicago Blackhawks at Ball Arena, fans are brimming with anticipation for what promises to be a riveting encounter. The Avalanche's recent form suggests they are poised to deliver an electrifying performance against their storied rivals.


Dec 19, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Colorado Avalanche forward Valeri Nichushkin (13) battles for position in front of the net with Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Nikita Zaitsev (22) in the second period at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports

In their last outing on February 23 against the Detroit Red Wings, despite a valiant effort that saw them register 31 shots and maintain a solid defensive game with 23 blocked attempts, the Avalanche fell short in overtime. The final scoreline read 2-1 in favor of Detroit, but it was a game that could have swung either way. A mere three percent shooting accuracy indicates that while opportunities were created, finishing was not as clinical as needed.


However, turning back just two days prior on February 21 reveals a different tale when Colorado faced off against the Vancouver Canucks at home. The Avalanche dominated with an impressive shooting percentage of 11 percent and secured a decisive victory with three goals to one. This performance showcased their ability to convert chances into goals – an essential factor heading into their next game.


Dec 19, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Colorado Avalanche forward Mikko Rantanen (96) passes the puck in the second period against the Chicago Blackhawks at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports

The most recent match-up between Colorado and Arizona Coyotes on February 18 further cements this narrative of offensive prowess from the Avalanche. They peppered Arizona's net with shots resulting in four goals from thirty-seven attempts – another testament to their eleven percent shooting efficiency.


Colorado's powerplay has been less than stellar recently; however, they've shown resilience by capitalizing on even-strength situations where they've scored all of their eight goals over these past games. Their penalty kill has been robust too – particularly evident when they successfully fended off six out of six powerplays against Arizona.


Dec 19, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Blackhawks forward MacKenzie Entwistle (58) is pinned to the boards by Colorado Avalanche defenseman Caleb Jones (82) while controlling the puck in the first period at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports

On defense, goaltending remains reliable for Colorado; save percentages have consistently hit perfect marks across these games indicating top-tier performances between the pipes which will be crucial in thwarting Chicago's offense.


The Blackhawks come into this match-up aware of the high-altitude challenge awaiting them at Denver’s Ball Arena. While statistics from Chicago’s recent games aren’t available here for analysis, it is well-known that any team facing off against Colorado must bring its best game both offensively and defensively due to COL’s ability to control play and capitalize on scoring opportunities especially when playing before their home crowd.


With all eyes set on March 5th at Ball Arena where puck drop is scheduled for March 4th at 9:00 PM EST (7:00 PM local time), fans can catch all the action live through various broadcast networks including ESPN+ online or NBCS-CHI and ALT for television viewership. Expectations are high as supporters eagerly await another thrilling chapter in this high-stakes NHL showdown.

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