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Colorado Avalanche's Mikko Rantanen Shines as Penguins Prepare to Face Off at Ball Arena

The Colorado Avalanche are set to take on the Pittsburgh Penguins in an exciting matchup at Ball Arena. Both teams have been performing well in recent games, but all eyes will be on Mikko Rantanen of the Avalanche, who has been a standout player in their previous three games.


Oct 26, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Colorado Avalanche goaltender Alexandar Georgiev (40) makes a save against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the second period at PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

In their most recent game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, Rantanen displayed his offensive prowess by scoring two goals and providing one assist. His shooting percentage was an impressive 67 percent, and he also contributed with hits and takeaways. Rantanen's performance was crucial in securing a victory for the Avalanche.


Over the past three games, Rantanen has consistently been a top performer for the team. He has accumulated a total of five goals and three assists, with a shooting percentage of 60 percent. His contributions have been instrumental in driving the Avalanche's success on offense.


Oct 26, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Colorado Avalanche right wing Valeri Nichushkin (13) skates with the puck between Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) and right wing Bryan Rust (17) during the second period at PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Another player to watch out for is Cale Makar, who plays as a defenseman for the Avalanche. Makar has been exceptional in both offensive and defensive aspects of the game. In the previous three games, he scored one goal and provided one assist while maintaining a shooting percentage of 20 percent. Makar's presence on the ice is sure to make an impact against the Penguins.


On the other side, Sidney Crosby will be leading the charge for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Although he hasn't had as many points as Rantanen, Crosby's experience and leadership make him a formidable opponent. He has contributed with two assists in their previous three games and will be looking to make his mark against the Avalanche.


Oct 26, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Ryan Shea (5) defends Colorado Avalanche center Ross Colton (20) during the second period at PPG Paints Arena. The Penguins shutout the Avalanche 4-0. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

When comparing the overall performance of both teams over their last three games, it is clear that the Colorado Avalanche have been more dominant. They have scored a total of 14 goals compared to the Penguins' nine goals. The Avalanche also have a higher shooting percentage and have been more effective on the power play.


As the game approaches, it will be interesting to see how these top performers continue to excel and impact the outcome. The Avalanche will rely on Rantanen's offensive prowess, while the Penguins will look to Crosby for his playmaking abilities.


Fans can catch all the action on TNT and Max, as the game is scheduled to take place on March 24th at 6:00 PM UTC at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado.

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